Trump Criticizes Ukraine's 'Lack of Gratitude' as Talks Begin in Switzerland

President Donald Trump has renewed his criticism of Ukraine for showing "ingratitude" toward U.S. support, as American and Ukrainian representatives meet in Switzerland to discuss his plan for ending the war. Trump's comments come as Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepares to meet with Ukrainian officials in Geneva to advance the administration's 28-point peace framework.

Trump posted on Truth Social that "Ukrainian leadership has shown no gratitude for our efforts," while calling the conflict a "humanitarian catastrophe" that began four years ago. He blamed his predecessor Joe Biden for the war's start without condemning Russia's role in the invasion.

"I inherited a war that should never have happened and is losing for everyone," Trump wrote. He added that Ukrainian officials haven't expressed any appreciation for American efforts, while Europe continues buying Russian oil.

The president also pointed to ongoing U.S. weapons sales to NATO allies for Ukraine, criticizing Biden's approach: "Corrupt Joe gave everything for free, free, free, including large amounts of money!"

These remarks set a tense backdrop for Sunday's Geneva meeting between Rubio and Ukrainian representatives. The administration now describes Trump's 28-point proposal as a "negotiating framework" rather than a final offer, after the president indicated it wasn't set in stone.

But the plan has raised serious concerns in Kyiv and across Europe. Ukrainian officials and EU leaders worry it could become a pathway to Ukrainian surrender rather than a genuine peace settlement.

The timing matters for financial markets and defense contractors. U.S. military aid to Ukraine has supported American weapons manufacturers, while European energy policies around Russian oil continue affecting global commodity prices. Any shift in U.S. support could reshape both defense spending patterns and energy market dynamics.

Trump's public criticism of Ukraine while negotiations are starting sends a clear signal about his administration's approach. Unlike Biden's administration, which emphasized unwavering support for Ukraine, Trump appears willing to pressure Kyiv publicly as part of his negotiating strategy.

The war has cost hundreds of billions in Western aid and military support since Russia's February 2022 invasion. How Trump's plan unfolds will determine whether that investment continues or whether the U.S. pushes for a quicker resolution that Ukraine might not want.