DTNZ
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has ignited a storm of criticism after posting a tweet reaffirming his government’s “steadfast support for Ukraine” in its war against Russia.
Luxon’s statement, which claimed to support the defence of “democracy and international law”, was met with overwhelming negativity, particularly in light of US President Donald Trump’s ongoing efforts to broker a peace deal between the warring nations.
Trump has positioned himself as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict, advocating for an end to hostilities and warning against continued financial and military aid to Ukraine. His stance has gained significant traction, particularly among Western societies tired of the financial support given to Ukraine and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky’s handling of the conflict.
Luxon’s tweet appeared to ignore the changing global sentiment, reinforcing support for Zelensky’s war effort rather than aligning with Trump’s peace-focused diplomacy.
Critics accused him of undermining efforts to resolve the conflict by negotiations. Many condemned Luxon for his ‘tone-deaf approach’ to a conflict that has drained Western resources and divided public opinion.
X erupted with derision, accusing Luxon of supporting a war Zelensky played a significant role in escalating. One user pointedly referenced a recent diplomatic blunder where Zelensky was caught muttering an expletive in Russian towards US Vice President JD Vance.
“You missed Zelensky calling the Vice Potus SUKA under his breath. That is Russian for HORE! Yes, they speak Russian – I worked with Ukrainians in the ’90s, they all considered themselves Russian. We should keep our nose out of that one!” one comment read, underscoring the complexity of the situation Luxon failed to acknowledge.
Others took an even harsher tone, with one person questioning Luxon’s commitment to his own citizens, stating: “You hate the people that voted you in, Mr Luxon? … Just admit it.”
Another user sarcastically suggested that Luxon should put his words into action by joining the frontlines himself: “Can we send you over to the front? You little grunting pigmy.”
One of the strongest criticisms came from those pointing out the massive financial burden placed on Western taxpayers to fund Ukraine’s war effort.
“America gave this CLOWN $350 billion. NZ taxpayers forked out $130 million. Get yo ass over there Luxon and defend Ukraine yourself!” another comment read, symbolic of growing discontent over continued financial aid to a conflict many now believe should be brought to an end through diplomacy rather than warfare.
Luxon’s political future could be in jeopardy if he continues to alienate his own voter base. One commenter bluntly put it: “MORE LOST VOTES.” Another noted that Luxon is already on shaky ground within his own party, writing: “Your polls are tanking, you’re on three-month probation as leader apparently and you now insult @POTUS @JDVance @SecRubio. @NZNationalParty and party membership need to do something and fast. You do not speak for the majority of New Zealanders!!”
With Zelensky’s standing in the international community rapidly deteriorating and Trump’s influence on global affairs continuing to grow, Luxon’s insistence on backing Ukraine without consideration of the broader political shifts could prove to be a significant miscalculation. Critics argue that New Zealand’s leader should be prioritising national interests and aligning with allies advocating for peace rather than prolonging a war that has cost countless lives and billions in taxpayer dollars.
This article was originally published by the Daily Telegraph New Zealand.
