Brighton Beach in Brooklyn is home to a tight-knit Slavic community where Ukrainians outnumber Russians. Recently, many in this community showed strong support for President Trump. However, a controversial meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sparked mixed feelings among local Ukrainian New Yorkers.
Igor Moshchinsky, 61, shared his thoughts at a cafe. He considers Trump’s style a bit harsh but agrees with the core of his critiques about Zelensky. Moshchinsky feels that Zelensky could show more gratitude for the support Ukraine receives from the U.S.
City councilwoman Inna Vernikov, a Republican and Trump supporter, echoed these concerns. She warned on social media that the fallout from the recent meeting could be dire for both countries. Vernikov emphasized the importance of collaboration to help Ukraine regain safety and sovereignty.
Inna Kir, who runs a lingerie shop, expressed strong support for Trump’s stance. She believes Zelensky should appreciate American aid more. Kir feels that if financial support diminishes, the conflict will end quickly.
Meanwhile, Igor Kozak and his wife Marina have mixed feelings. They feel that Zelensky has been disrespectful at times. Despite this, not all Ukrainians in the area back Trump. The Ukrainian community in New York City numbers around 150,000, and opinions vary widely.
In Manhattan’s East Village, some residents were outraged by Trump’s remarks. Ivan Makar, principal of a Ukrainian studies school, said he felt disgusted by how the president treated Zelensky. Makar, whose family fled Ukraine for safety, described Trump’s behavior as typical bullying and expressed pride in Zelensky for standing up to it.
Jason Birchard, who owns the Ukrainian restaurant Veselka, expressed his support for Zelensky by wearing a shirt featuring Ukraine’s national emblem. With a line stretching outside his restaurant, Birchard noted an uptick in customers. He emphasized that Ukraine has been a democratic state for over 30 years and shouldn’t be wrongly accused of aggression.
On a sunny day in Brighton Beach, Ilia Makarov, a 20-year-old computer science student, shared his concerns. Having moved from Ukraine five years ago, he found it hard to believe the U.S. might shift support towards Russia. He remarked that America has typically acted as a peacemaker, not siding with what he called “terrorists.” Makarov’s frustration reflected a deep concern amid an ongoing conflict that deeply affects many in his community.
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Ukrainian-Americans,Presidential Election of 2024,Polls and Public Opinion,United States International Relations,Trump, Donald J,Zelensky, Volodymyr,Brighton Beach (Brooklyn, NY),East Village (Manhattan, NY),Ukraine,Russia
