'Fought bravely': Trump walks back 'dictator' jibe at Ukraine's Zelenskyy

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Thursday softened his stance on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, expressing respect for him ahead of their scheduled meeting. His remarks came after previously referring to Zelenskyy as a "dictator," a comment he downplayed when questioned by reporters.Speaking at a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump said, "I think we're going to have a very good meeting tomorrow morning. We're going to get along really well. I have a lot of respect for him."The meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy is expected to focus on a proposed mining rights deal, which Trump has championed as a way for Ukraine to compensate the United States for its military and financial aid. The agreement would grant Washington access to a share of Ukraine’s mineral wealth.Trump, who has previously criticised the substantial US aid provided to Kyiv, adopted a more conciliatory tone, acknowledging Ukraine’s resilience in the ongoing war. "We've given him a lot of equipment and a lot of money, but they have fought very bravely," he said. "Somebody has to use that equipment, and they have been very brave in that sense."Trump’s past remarks about Zelenskyy had drawn sharp reactions, particularly after he spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about Ukraine earlier in February. Following Zelenskyy ’s criticism, Trump labelled the Ukrainian leader a "dictator" in a post on his Truth Social platform.When pressed about the remark, Trump appeared to distance himself from it. "Did I say that? I can't believe I said that," he responded.The upcoming meeting is seen as a crucial moment for US-Ukraine relations, with discussions likely to focus on both military support and economic cooperation.