As EU Leaders Rally Behind Zelenskyy After Trump Spat, These Global Leaders Are Yet To Take Sides

Last Updated:March 01, 2025, 14:08 IST

While European and other leaders were quick to show their solidarity with Zelenskyy, several other prominent global figures have refrained from publicly commenting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. (Reuters/File)

European leaders rallied behind Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday, voicing their support following the shocking public confrontation between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump at the White House.

The heated exchange, which unfolded in front of a press gathering on Friday, sent shockwaves around the world. Trump openly berated Zelenskyy for not being “thankful," accusing the Ukrainian leader of “not being ready for peace" and “disrespecting" the United States in the “cherished Oval Office."

While European and other leaders were quick to show their unwavering solidarity with Zelenskyy, several other prominent global figures have refrained from publicly commenting or taking a clear position.

These leaders include Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi (India)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has met Zelenskyy at least three times since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, but he maintains India’s neutral stance on the conflict, advocating for peace. Just earlier this week, India had abstained from key UN votes, refusing to openly criticise Russia.

2. President Xi Jinping (China)

Chinese President Xi Jinping has backed Russia and had also abstained from key UN votes, reflecting China’s strategic ties with Moscow. Despite advocating for peace, China has not taken a strong position on the Trump-Zelenskyy spat.

3. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba (Japan)

Japan has always supported Ukraine’s sovereignty. In a G7 meeting earlier this week, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba urged G7 leaders to remain united in their efforts to achieve a “lasting peace" for Ukraine.

4. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (Turkey)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in the past, supported Ukraine’s bid for NATO membership before US President Donald Trump ruled out the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO. In the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Erdogan has maintained balanced ties with both Russia and Ukraine.

Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

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