Former U.S. President Donald Trump took to social media to criticize his former national security advisor, Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, for his stance on Russian President Vladimir Putin amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump accused McMaster of being weak and ineffective, following McMaster's comments on Trump's approach to Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
In response to McMaster's criticism, Trump emphasized the need to focus less on Putin and more on domestic concerns such as migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and individuals from mental institutions entering the country. Trump expressed concerns about avoiding a situation similar to what he perceives as issues in Europe.
The tension between Trump and McMaster escalated after a meeting with Zelenskyy in the Oval Office, where Trump and Vice President JD Vance reportedly put pressure on the Ukrainian president. McMaster questioned the administration's approach, highlighting the contrast between pressuring Zelenskyy and appearing to be lenient towards Putin, whom he blamed for the conflict in Ukraine.
The meeting with Zelenskyy became strained when the Ukrainian president requested security guarantees amid the ongoing war with Russia, which began over three years ago. The exchange led to a brief meeting as Trump sent Zelenskyy on his way, causing reactions from Russian leaders and state media.
Despite the tensions, several leaders from Europe and other regions voiced support for Zelenskyy following the incident. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the backing he received on social media, highlighting the international response to the situation.
