Many U.S. senators disagree with Trump’s assessment of Zelensky.

Recently, Trump referred to Zelensky as a "dictator without elections" due to his refusal to hold elections under martial law, while also stating that the Ukrainian authorities bear responsibility for Russia's large-scale invasion and the ongoing war.

Republican senators have expressed concerns that Trump's administration's policies could strengthen the position of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Many lawmakers assert that they view Ukraine as a victim of Russian aggression and do not support the so-called appeasement of the aggressor.

Senators generally avoid direct criticism of Trump; however, their statements indicate that they disagree with his comments regarding Ukraine and Russia. Specifically, Louisiana Senator John Kennedy stated that Vladimir Putin started the war and described the Russian president as a "gangster with a black heart." Senator Roger Wicker (Mississippi) labeled Putin a "war criminal" who should end his life in prison, if not executed. He called for Ukraine's participation in peace negotiations. Senator Thom Tillis (North Carolina) stated that he disagrees with characterizing Zelensky as a "dictator." Senate Majority Leader John Thune mentioned that Trump was expressing his personal opinion but supported the administration's efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine.

Democratic senators, particularly Richard Blumenthal and Bernie Sanders, have subjected Trump to even harsher criticism.

Some of Trump's closest allies in Congress, on the other hand, have supported him, including House member Marjorie Taylor Greene, who aligned herself with the negative assessment of Zelensky.

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, in an online debate with historian Niall Ferguson, presented several arguments in favor of the U.S. administration's policy. According to him, it is based on "realism." Vance believes (and implies that President Trump agrees) that from the outset of the war, it was clear that Ukraine would not achieve a military victory even with the help of Western allies; therefore, there is no alternative to a peaceful settlement. He also provided several other arguments supporting Trump's position. "We must strive for peace, and right now. President Trump ran on this platform, won, and this platform is correct. Talking about 'appeasement' every time American interests must consider the realities of the conflict is a sign of laziness and anti-historical nonsense," Vance believes.

The head of the Central Election Commission of Ukraine, Oleg Didenko, in an interview with RFE/RL, stated that discussions about holding elections in Ukraine during wartime only benefit Russia. According to him, Moscow uses these talks to undermine the legitimacy of the Ukrainian authorities.

Vladimir Zelensky's five-year term expires in May 2024. Elections could not be held during this period due to the martial law imposed in the country because of the Russian invasion. According to Ukrainian law, the incumbent president remains in office until new elections, which can take place after the martial law is lifted.