Protesters rally outside U.S. Embassy in Prague against Trump’s Ukraine stance

Dozens of protesters gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in Prague on Monday, the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, denouncing U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks about the war and urging Europe to take a stronger stand in supporting Ukraine.

The protesters stood in front of the embassy with an American flag bearing the slogans treason, cowardice, hypocrisy and greed. Others held Ukrainian and EU flags, shouting "yuck" or "fascist" at the mention of Donald Trump.

The demonstration, organized by groups including Kaputin, Pulse of Europe, and Civic Signpost, came in response to Trump’s criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Trump, who has called Zelensky a “dictator” and dismissed the U.S. role in overseeing peace efforts, has raised concerns among European leaders who have criticized his stance as being too aligned with Moscow’s.

“Current developments clearly show that Europe must stand on its own two feet in defense,” said Adam Hanka, one of the protest organizers. “Only a united Europe can stand up for Ukraine, which is now a shield in the struggle of democracy against tyranny.”

Among those in attendance was a Ukrainian refugee who expressed gratitude for Czechia’s firm stance in supporting Ukraine. “Ukraine has always been moving towards Western values and freedom,” she said. “That is why Putin attacked—he is trying to destroy democracy all over the world.”

The protest coincided with the EU’s approval of its 16th package of sanctions against Russia, which includes measures targeting Russian shadow fleet ships, aluminum exports, and individuals and companies linked to the invasion.

Tensions between the U.S. and its European allies have deepened after the U.S. opposed a European-backed resolution condemning the invasion at Monday's UN vote and supported a Security Council measure calling for peace without directly criticizing Russia.

The move, which saw the UK and France abstain from the U.S.-led vote, has alarmed European leaders, including France’s Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who are now working to address the growing rift.