(CNN) The relationship between Ukraine and the United States is facing increasing strain over intelligence sharing, sanctions, Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy, and the path to peace.
There also appears to be deepening mutual distrust between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.
Trump on Monday accused Zelensky of not knowing what he was talking about and suggested it was “time for somebody else to negotiate on behalf of Ukraine.”
Over the weekend, Kyiv launched one of its biggest drone attacks this year on Russia, hitting a key oil terminal, in defiance of Trump’s demand that Ukraine stop hitting Russian refining plants.
The White House is trying to relieve pressure on oil and diesel prices in the US ahead of crucial midterm elections, as diesel prices are at a record high.
Last week, Trump called Kyiv’s strikes on Russian oil refineries a “disgrace” and said Zelensky was more difficult to deal with than Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
In an interview on Sunday, Zelensky hit back, saying it was “better to have partners who are very open and clear than to have those who are killers, even with a smile on their face,” an apparent reference to Trump’s relationship to Russia.
Trump again criticized Zelensky on Sunday, claiming in a Truth Social post that he “doesn’t want to end this war, and probably never did.”
The relationship now seems to be at its lowest ebb since the explosive meeting at the White House 18 months ago.
Zelensky has consistently said he is open to peace negotiations if Ukraine’s security can be guaranteed.
The Ukrainian president said he spoke to US envoy, Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner on Sunday as part of “nonstop communication” to work towards the goal of peace.
Zelensky added later he was hoping to meet the two “maybe in Norway in the coming days.” CNN has reached out to the White House for comment on the meeting.
“We are doing everything on our part to make this happen, and to ensure that America’s position is strong and helps bring peace closer,” Zelensky posted on X.
“Ukraine never wanted this war, and we have welcomed literally EVERY attempt by our partners to bring this war to a dignified end,” Zelensky added on Monday.
https://www.cnn.com/2026/10/19/europe/us-ukraine-relationship-tump-zelensky-distrust-intl