Mike Waltz Says Trump’s Priority Is Ending Ukraine War, Not Assigning Blame

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz addressed on Thursday whether President Donald Trump holds Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky or Russian President Vladimir Putin “more responsible” for the war in Ukraine. The question, posed by Fox News reporter Peter Doocy, came amid Trump’s recent criticisms of Ukraine and Zelensky, whom he labeled a “dictator” and partially blamed for the conflict.

Waltz emphasized that Trump’s primary goal is to bring an end to the war, regardless of assigning blame. “Well, look, his goal is to bring this war to an end, period,” Waltz said. “And there has been ongoing fighting on both sides. It is World War I-style trench warfare.”

Waltz outlined Trump’s concerns about Zelensky, highlighting several key issues:

• Lack of Appreciation: Waltz said Trump believes Zelensky has not shown sufficient gratitude for the support provided by the U.S., including during Trump’s first term.

• Unacceptable Rhetoric: According to Waltz, “some of the rhetoric coming out of Kiev, frankly, and insults to President Trump were unacceptable.”

• Lost Opportunity for Cooperation: Waltz pointed to missed opportunities for constructive negotiations, particularly regarding economic deals that could benefit both Ukraine and the American taxpayer.

One example he cited was Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s recent trip to Ukraine, which aimed to secure future supplies of critical natural resources. Waltz noted the strategic value of a damaged aluminum foundry in Ukraine. “If that is restored, it would account for America’s entire imports of aluminum for an entire year. That one foundry,” he said, underscoring the potential for mutual economic benefit.

Trump’s approach to the Ukraine war diverges sharply from traditional U.S. foreign policy. Rather than providing unconditional support, Trump appears focused on ensuring American taxpayers receive tangible returns on their investment. With over $200 billion in aid sent to Ukraine under the Biden administration, Trump’s strategy involves negotiating resource deals to offset costs and secure national interests.

Waltz argued that a more cooperative stance from Zelensky could have led to constructive outcomes. Instead, he suggested that “we got a lot of rhetoric in the media that was incredibly unfortunate.”

Trump’s recent statements have sparked controversy, with critics accusing him of undermining Ukrainian morale while negotiations between the U.S. and Russia continue. Trump’s blunt assertion that Ukraine “should’ve never started” the war and his claim that Zelensky “wants to keep the ‘gravy train’ going” reflect his frustration with the conflict’s prolonged nature and rising costs.

Despite the backlash, Waltz’s comments suggest Trump’s criticisms are part of a broader strategy to push Ukraine toward negotiations and end the war swiftly. “There are tremendous resources there,” Waltz noted, framing Ukraine’s natural assets as part of the path to recovery and stability.

Trump’s administration continues to advocate for a negotiated peace, with Waltz reinforcing that America’s focus is not on taking sides but on achieving a sustainable resolution. “We do have an obligation to the American taxpayer in helping them recoup the hundreds of billions that have occurred,” Waltz stated, advocating for pragmatic solutions that prioritize American interests.

As Trump’s team moves forward with diplomatic efforts, the administration’s stance suggests a pragmatic approach one where American support is contingent upon accountability, appreciation, and strategic returns.

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