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In a fresh round of controversial remarks, former U.S. President Donald Trump has pointed fingers at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, blaming him—alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Joe Biden—for the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump suggested that Zelensky bears partial responsibility for the deadly conflict, which he claimed has resulted in “millions” of deaths.

During a meeting with El Salvador’s President on Monday, Trump declared, “Let’s say Putin number one, Biden number two — who had no idea what he was doing — and Zelensky,” when asked who he believes is to blame for the war. He also slammed Zelensky’s persistent appeals for military support, mocking his requests for missiles and casting doubt on Ukraine’s chances of success. “You don’t start a war against someone 20 times your size and hope for help,” Trump added.

Trump’s statements mark a significant escalation in his criticism of the Ukrainian leader, whom he has previously derided as a “dictator without elections”—a line that aligns with Kremlin talking points. His recent rhetoric comes amid heightened tensions between the two figures, especially following a tense Oval Office encounter and Ukraine’s diplomatic push for American investment in critical mineral resources.

The timing of Trump’s comments has drawn further scrutiny, coming just a day after a Russian missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumy killed at least 35 civilians. While Trump described the attack as a “mistake,” he stopped short of condemning Moscow’s aggression.

In response, Zelensky, speaking to CBS, extended an invitation to Trump to visit Ukraine and see the consequences of the invasion firsthand.