On Friday, Russia reacted with satisfaction to the heated confrontation between President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and White House officials, suggesting that the Ukrainian leader had received his due. The discord played into Moscow's hands as it seeks to cultivate relations with Trump's new administration while undermining Zelenskiy.
Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev characterized the situation as a "solid slap" to Zelenskiy for his alleged disrespect towards the U.S. leadership. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova remarked on the restraint shown by Trump and Vice President JD Vance during the argument, insinuating that Zelenskiy was ungrateful.
Television commentator Vladimir Solovyov announced a special program focusing on "Zelenskiy's suicide in the White House." Medvedev, among others, criticized Zelenskiy and called for military aid to Ukraine to be halted.
Russia has consistently portrayed Zelenskiy as a puppet of the U.S., utilized to harm Moscow's interests. Zelenskiy, however, maintains that he is defending Ukraine with the support of its allies.
The tightening relationship between Moscow and Washington raises concerns for Ukraine and its European allies, who fear being marginalized in potential deals between Trump and President Vladimir Putin that could compromise their security.
Putin has questioned Zelenskiy's legitimacy, pointing to the expired term and martial law preventing new elections in Ukraine following the outbreak of full-scale war.
The recent altercation between Trump and Zelenskiy at the White House may weaken the Ukrainian leader, who has heavily relied on aid from Trump's predecessor, Joe Biden, during the ongoing conflict.
Russian officials believe Zelenskiy's downfall is imminent, anticipating it will facilitate peace negotiations. The clash in the Oval Office further underscored the perception that Zelenskiy is unfit for office, prompting calls for his resignation.
Konstantin Kosachyov, deputy chairman of Russia's upper house of parliament, highlighted Zelenskiy's perceived defeat and implied further challenges ahead.