Nikki Haley, former 2024 GOP presidential contender, faced heavy criticism after she suggested that President Donald Trump was echoing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s desires in his attempt to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine. Haley, who served as South Carolina governor and Trump’s UN ambassador, took issue with Trump’s characterization of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a “dictator without elections” and his statements about Ukraine being “shattered.”

Trump had dismissed Zelenskyy as a “modestly successful comedian” and questioned the U.S. involvement in the Ukraine war. He also claimed the U.S. was successfully negotiating an end to the conflict. Haley voiced her disapproval on social media, accusing Trump’s stance of being aligned with Russian interests. This led to a wave of backlash online.

Critics on social media expressed their disdain, calling Haley a “war monger” and accusing her of not understanding the situation. Some users even labeled her irrelevant and untrustworthy, with others calling for her to exit the race. Despite the criticism, Haley remained firm in her stance, insisting that Trump’s comments were “classic Russian talking points.”

Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance commented on Trump’s willingness to pursue a peace deal with Russia and Ukraine, mentioning the broad spectrum of options at the U.S. disposal to ensure peace. Vance emphasized that Trump’s approach was focused on productive negotiations, adding that a surprising deal might come out of it.