The channel reported that recently Trump's aides have been closely monitoring Zelensky's public statements, particularly his criticism of the exclusion of the U.S. from negotiations with the Russians in Saudi Arabia. It is noted that everything "came to light" after Zelensky told reporters that Trump lives in a "web of disinformation."
Trump privately informed aides who were with him in Florida that he wanted to respond directly, which led to his post on Truth Social, where he referred to the Ukrainian president as a "dictator." This was shared with CNN by one official who traveled with Trump. He made the post while on his way to his golf club in Miami and expanded on his comments before hundreds of attendees at an evening investment conference in Miami.
Explaining Trump's statements, White House officials insisted that his main and indeed sole goal is to end the war, which he believes the previous administration handled poorly. "However, it is unclear how he achieves this goal by criticizing Zelensky and aligning with Russian narratives," CNN reported.
Some of Trump's advisors and allies see a strategy in this tirade, the channel noted. A Trump supporter who recently spoke with the president in Florida said that one reason for Trump's attacks on Ukraine is to scare Europe into paying more for Ukraine's defense. He pointed out that following Trump's statements, Denmark promised to increase its military spending. A Trump advisor noted that if other European countries are "at least half as responsive as Denmark," it would be a "huge win."
Trump's allies in the Republican Party suggested that he might have a "grand plan."
"I support a peaceful outcome and resolution in Ukraine," said Senate Majority Leader John Thune when asked if he had concerns about the president's rhetoric regarding Ukraine. He added that in his opinion, Trump and his team are working towards achieving peace and "right now they need a little space."
Senator Kevin Cramer stated that Trump is "always preparing for something," adding that he suspects Trump may be "preparing for negotiations" with the illegitimate president of the aggressor nation, Vladimir Putin, through his comments about Zelensky.
CNN notes that Trump has been skeptical of Zelensky for years, questioning his decisions and during his first presidential term insisted that the Ukrainian president initiate an investigation into Trump's then-opponent Joe Biden. The channel also recalls that during his previous term, Trump experienced mood swings that led to canceled foreign trips, abrupt phone call hang-ups, and the imposition of new tariffs. Some supporters of the American president say that Zelensky should have anticipated Trump's anger. Nevertheless, Trump will need Zelensky's support for a successful negotiated resolution to the conflict, the publication states.