Ankara: Australia has reiterated its steadfast support for Ukraine following comments by US President Donald Trump, who labeled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a 'dictator.' Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the importance of standing with Ukraine, highlighting the broader implications of their struggle for national sovereignty and the international rule of law.

According to Anadolu Agency, Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles also voiced his support for Ukraine, labeling Russia as the 'aggressor' in the conflict with Kyiv. Marles dismissed Trump's characterization of Zelenskyy, asserting that the Ukrainian leader is not a 'dictator' and that the conflict should be resolved on Ukraine's terms.

Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton joined the discussion, criticizing Trump's remarks as 'wrong.' He underscored the importance of supporting Ukraine in the face of aggression.

Trump's comments included labeling Zelenskyy as a "modestly successful comedian" who had supposedly led the US into an unwinnable war. He also urged Ukraine to hold presidential elections following US-led peace talks with Russia, which have notably excluded Kyiv.

Zelenskyy has expressed concern over being left out of the negotiations and has refuted Trump's assertion that Ukraine initiated the ongoing war. Ukraine's presidential elections were scheduled for April 2024, coinciding with the end of Zelenskyy's five-year term. However, the country remains under martial law due to the conflict that began in February 2022.