President Donald Trump this week falsely blamed Ukraine for starting the war that has cost tens of thousands of Ukrainian lives, causing outrage and alarm in a country that has spent nearly three years fighting back a much larger Russian military. […] Here’s a look at some of Trump’s statements:

Claim: Zelenskyy is a ‘dictator’ who is blocking elections Fact check: Ukrainian elections can’t be held during a war Claim: Zelenskyy has an approval rating of 4 per cent Fact check: Recent polling indicates Zelenkskyy has an approval rating of 57 per cent Claim: Ukraine ‘started’ the war Fact check: Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 Claim: The US contributes more aid to Ukraine than Europe Fact check: Europe has overtaken the US in terms of Ukraine aid

U.S. President Donald Trump has made several statements on Ukraine and Russia’s full-scale invasion of the country in recent days that closely resemble Kremlin rhetoric. The assertions have amplified fears that Trump, who is pushing to end the three-year war, may try to pressure Kyiv to make major concessions without seeking many in return from Moscow. The Moscow Times examines Trump’s statements and how they compare to Kremlin talking points – plus the truth behind the claims: Trump blames Ukraine for war Trump questions President Volodymyr Zelensky’s legitimacy Zelensky’s ‘4%’ approval rating