Official records and news reports at the time of the conflict

Trump Says Zelensky 'Should Never Have Let That War Start,' Warns of World War III

Oct 17, 2024, 03:23 PM

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for allowing the war with Russia to start, stating that "he should never have let that war start." Trump described Zelensky as "one of the greatest salesmen I have ever seen." In interviews and statements, Trump claimed that the invasion of Ukraine would not have occurred under his leadership, asserting his strong stance would have deterred Russian President Vladimir Putin. He also suggested that "there wouldn't have been an October 7 in Israel," referring to recent conflicts. Trump largely blames President Joe Biden for the war, saying Biden "instigated" it. He emphasized his good relationship with Putin, suggesting that he could have prevented the conflict. Trump warned that "the whole world is blowing up" and that "the world is in grave danger," stating that the world has never been closer to World War III.