A heated confrontation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office led to the abrupt cancellation of a planned minerals deal between the two nations.
Angry Exchange in the Oval Office
The meeting, intended to be a standard press opportunity before the signing of the U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal, devolved into a tense confrontation broadcast live. U.S. Vice President JD Vance interjected during the session, telling President Zelenskyy, “You should be thanking the president for trying to bring an end to this conflict.”
The situation escalated as Trump, Vance, and Zelenskyy attempted to speak over one another. Zelenskyy rebuked Vance, stating that the United States would “in the future” feel the consequences of the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Trump responded sharply, saying Zelenskyy was “in no position to dictate what we are going to feel,” and accused him of “gambling with the lives of millions of people” and being “disrespectful to this country.”
Aftermath of the Confrontation
Following the heated exchange, Trump told reporters that Zelenskyy “didn’t look like a man who wanted peace,” and that the meeting “didn’t work out exactly great.” He remarked that Zelenskyy “overplayed his hand.”
Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the American people, stating on social media, “Thank you @POTUS, Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.”
In an interview, Zelenskyy mentioned that relations with the United States could still be repaired, emphasizing that Ukraine desperately needs Washington’s support in its ongoing conflict. “It will be difficult without your support,” he said.
International Reactions
Zelenskyy is expected to attend a summit hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Sunday in London, alongside leaders from Italy, Germany, Poland, and other allies.
European leaders voiced support for Zelenskyy following the confrontation at the White House.
“Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people. Be strong, be brave, be fearless. You are never alone,” European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz posted, “Nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians do. Therefore we are working on a common path to a lasting and just peace. Ukraine can rely on Germany, and on Europe.”
French President Emmanuel Macron stated, “We were all right to help Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago, and to continue to do so,” calling for respect for those who have been fighting since the beginning.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressed solidarity, saying, “Dear Ukrainian friends, you are not alone.”
Other European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, echoed similar messages of support for Ukraine.
