Trump says ‘I can’t believe I said that’ when asked if he still thinks Zelenskyy is a dictator

A Day of Diplomacy and Controversy at the White House

On Thursday, the White House buzzed with international diplomacy as President Donald Trump met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss pressing global issues, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and trade relations. However, the day was not without controversy, as Trump faced repeated questions about his recent remarks labeling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a "dictator." When confronted by reporters, Trump either sidestepped the issue or claimed he could not recall making the statement, raising eyebrows given the gravity of the situation. Despite the awkwardness, Trump expressed optimism about upcoming peace talks and a historic agreement with Ukraine, signaling a busy and eventful day ahead.

Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting and the Rare Earth Minerals Deal

The main focus of the day was the upcoming meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, scheduled for Friday at the White House. Trump revealed that the two leaders would sign a groundbreaking agreement granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, oils, and gases. This deal, described as a cornerstone for a sustainable future between the two nations, highlights the strategic importance of Ukraine’s resources in the global economy. Trump also expressed confidence in progress toward ending the Russia-Ukraine war, citing "very successful" calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, the mood was somewhat overshadowed by Trump’s past criticism of Zelenskyy, which he refused to address directly. Instead, he emphasized his anticipation of a "very good meeting" with the Ukrainian leader, suggesting he was eager to move past the controversy.

Tensions Over Tariffs and the Special US-UK Relationship

While Ukraine dominated much of the conversation, Trump and Starmer also addressed trade relations between the U.S. and the UK. Reporters asked whether Starmer had persuaded Trump to reconsider imposing tariffs on British goods, a move that could strain the special relationship between the two nations. Trump acknowledged Starmer’s efforts, saying there was a "very good chance" of a trade deal that would render tariffs unnecessary. He also highlighted the historical strength of the US-UK alliance, which has evolved from colonial-era tensions to a partnership both leaders described as "special." The meeting concluded on a positive note, with Trump accepting an invitation from King Charles III for a state visit to the UK, a rare honor that underscored the enduring ties between the two nations.

A Royal Invitation and Lighthearted Moments

One of the most surprising moments of the day came when Starmer presented Trump with a letter from King Charles III, inviting the president and the first lady to a state visit to the UK. This would mark an unprecedented second state visit for Trump, a testament to the strong personal and diplomatic ties he has cultivated with British leaders. Trump, known for his charisma, couldn’t resist a lighthearted remark about Starmer’s British accent, joking that he would have become president "20 years ago" if he had possessed such a trait. The moment offered a rare glimpse of humor amidst the serious business of international diplomacy.

Reflections on a Day of High-Stakes Diplomacy

As the day drew to a close, it was clear that Trump’s meeting with Starmer and the upcoming encounter with Zelenskyy were pivotal moments in his presidency. The rare earth minerals deal with Ukraine and the potential trade agreement with the UK underscored Trump’s focus on economic and geopolitical strategy. However, his refusal to address his controversial remarks about Zelenskyy lingered in the air, raising questions about how the Ukrainian leader might receive him during their meeting. Despite these tensions, Trump remained characteristically confident, emphasizing his belief in his ability to broker peace and secure advantageous deals for the United States.

The Bigger Picture: Trump’s Vision for Global Leadership

The events of the day reflected the broader themes of Trump’s presidency: a mix of tough diplomacy, economic nationalism, and a penchant for the dramatic. By positioning himself as a key player in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict and securing strategic resource deals, Trump reinforced his self-image as a master deal-maker capable of achieving what others cannot. At the same time, his handling of sensitive international relationships—whether through praise for authoritarian leaders like Putin or criticism of democratic allies like Zelenskyy—continued to spark debate about his approach to global leadership. Love him or hate him, Trump undeniably remains a central figure in shaping the world order, and Thursday’s events offered a compelling reminder of his influence.