Maybe it’s personal: Europeans worry Trump just likes Putin more than Zelenskyy

Key Points:

• U.S. President Donald Trump expressed a controversial view on the Ukraine war, suggesting Russia "has been fine" in the conflict, fueling perceptions that the U.S. might be siding with Russia over Ukraine.
• European officials and diplomats attribute Trump's stance to personal biases, including his dislike of Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and preference for autocratic leaders, rather than strictly U.S. political interests.
• Despite ongoing Russian attacks and Ukraine’s dwindling resources, Trump has increased pressure on Zelenskyy to negotiate peace, while showing little criticism of Putin, raising concerns among EU diplomats about U.S. support for Ukraine.
• Ukraine has reported reduced U.S. military support, including critical defense technologies, contributing to rising civilian casualties amid intensified Russian missile strikes and a severe humanitarian toll.
• Recent diplomatic talks, including meetings in Oslo involving Trump’s envoy, have revived hopes for peace negotiations, with European leaders noting substantive progress and a potential return to dialogue with Russia.