Former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a heated argument at the White House. Trump told Zelensky to make peace with Russia or risk losing U.S. support. The meeting, which was supposed to focus on a minerals deal between the two countries, turned into a tense exchange.
Meeting Turns Sour
Zelensky and Trump repeatedly interrupted each other in front of reporters. The U.S. had planned to sign an agreement giving American companies access to Ukraine’s oil, gas, and rare minerals. However, after their argument, U.S. officials asked Zelensky to leave before the deal was signed.
At one point, Trump accused Zelensky of not being grateful enough for U.S. support. He warned that Ukraine was “gambling with World War Three” by refusing to compromise with Russia. Zelensky insisted that Ukraine would not make any deals with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump Blames Zelensky for War
Trump had recently softened his stance on Ukraine, saying he respected Zelensky. However, during this meeting, he suggested that Zelensky was responsible for the war because he had not started peace talks earlier. U.S. Vice President JD Vance also pressured Zelensky to negotiate an end to the war.
Zelensky responded by questioning what kind of diplomacy they expected, referencing a failed 2019 ceasefire agreement. Vance then accused Zelensky of being disrespectful. The conversation escalated as Trump and Vance accused him of being ungrateful for U.S. military and financial aid.
Shortly after the argument, Zelensky left the White House earlier than planned.
Reactions to the Clash
Trump later wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social, that Zelensky had “disrespected” the U.S. and was not ready for peace. Zelensky, however, thanked Trump and the U.S. multiple times in a post.
In an interview with Fox News, Zelensky admitted that the argument was “not good” but believed U.S.-Ukraine relations could still be repaired. He emphasized that the bond between the two nations was more than just about their leaders.
Political Divide in the U.S.
Reactions in the U.S. were divided along party lines. Republicans supported Trump, while Democrats criticized his treatment of Zelensky. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who had previously backed Ukraine, said Zelensky was disrespectful and suggested he should resign. Meanwhile, Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries called Trump’s behavior “appalling” and warned that it could encourage Russia.
European Leaders Support Ukraine
Many European leaders expressed support for Zelensky. The UK, Germany, and France reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that Europe now needed to take a leadership role in defending Ukraine.
Russia Reacts
Russia’s government said Trump and Vance had shown “restraint” in their dealings with Zelensky. A foreign ministry spokeswoman even suggested it was surprising they didn’t react more strongly.
The tense White House meeting has raised concerns about the future of U.S. support for Ukraine and its impact on the war with Russia.
