Donald Trump is now asking Ukraine—the country he’s spent months pressuring into a peace deal with Russia while mocking its president—for help with his war in Iran.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed in his nightly address Wednesday that the United States has requested Kyiv’s assistance in defending against Iranian drones, according to Reuters.
“Partners are turning to us, to Ukraine, asking for help in defending against Shahed drones, with expertise and real operational experience,” Zelensky said. “There have also been requests from the American side.”
The irony is staggering. Trump has spent the past year berating Zelensky, calling him a “dictator” and “P.T. Barnum” on Truth Social. During their Oval Office meeting in February 2025, Trump openly mocked the Ukrainian leader’s clothing: “Ooh, you’re all dressed up—He’s all dressed up today!”
Now he needs Ukraine’s help.
The request could create a dire shortage of U.S. air defense missiles in Ukraine at a moment when Ukraine’s war against Russia has stretched into its fourth year. Two European diplomats told Reuters there is mounting concern that Ukraine will become increasingly vulnerable as Trump drags on his bombardment of Iran.
This is the same Trump who pledged on the campaign trail to secure a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours of taking office. Instead, he launched a war in the Middle East—one where even he has admitted he doesn’t know how long the conflict will last.
Vice President JD Vance berated Zelensky just weeks ago for not being grateful enough to Trump. British intelligence officials reportedly shared intercepted calls showing senior Kremlin figures mocking Trump’s apparent willingness to take Putin at his word.
“The Russians are privately mocking Trump over his naivety about Putin’s intentions,” a senior U.K. security official told The Spectator in February. “Putin doesn’t want to end the war.”
A photograph of Trump walking side-by-side with Putin from their fizzled Alaska summit now hangs prominently in the Palm Room connecting the West Wing to the Executive Residence.
At the time of publication, at least six U.S. troops have been killed in the Iran fighting. The actual death toll is likely much higher.
The Department of Defense and the White House did not respond to requests for comment.