President Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky had a heated confrontation at the White House, with Trump accusing Zelensky of “risking millions of lives” and warning his actions could lead to World War Three.
The two leaders were supposed to hold a private meeting after their Oval Office discussions, but tensions escalated, and Zelensky was asked to leave the White House following a public disagreement in front of the media.
Their conversation, which was intended to lead to the signing of a mineral’s agreement, quickly deteriorated as both interrupted each other. The proposed deal was seen as a step towards strengthening security ties between the United States and Ukraine.
Zelensky argued earlier that there should be “no compromises” with Vladimir Putin, while Trump insisted Ukraine would need to make concessions to achieve peace with Russia.
The situation worsened when U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, present alongside other officials, told Zelensky that the war needed to end through diplomatic efforts.
Zelensky responded by questioning what “diplomacy” would look like, referencing a 2019 ceasefire agreement made before Russia’s large-scale invasion, during which Moscow backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Zelenskyy, Accused of Being Disrespectful
Vance accused Zelensky of being disrespectful and using the media presence to argue his position. This caused the exchange to escalate further, with both Trump and Vance criticizing Zelensky for being ungrateful for America’s years of support during the conflict with Russia.
Trump stated that Zelensky was not in a position to dictate how the U.S. should act.
Shortly after, and ahead of schedule, Zelensky was seen leaving the White House in his official vehicle.
Trump later posted on Truth Social, describing Zelensky’s behaviour in the Oval Office as disrespectful. He claimed, “President Zelensky is not ready for peace if the U.S. is involved because he believes our role gives him an upper hand in negotiations. I don’t want an advantage; I want PEACE.”
Zelensky also turned to social media, thanking Trump and the U.S. multiple times.
Reactions from U.S. politicians were divided along party lines. Republicans sided with Trump, while Democrats were critical of his actions. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, once a strong supporter of Ukraine, said, “What I witnessed in the Oval Office was disrespectful.
I’m not sure if we can work with Zelensky any more.” He added that Zelensky should either step aside and appoint someone else to represent Ukraine or change his approach.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy is set to meet Sir Keir Starmer on Sunday during a European leaders’ summit in London. Starmer expressed unwavering support for Ukraine, according to Downing Street.
A spokesperson for No. 10 stated, “The Prime Minister has spoken with both President Trump and President Zelensky, reaffirming his steadfast support for Ukraine and working towards a lasting peace that ensures Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.”
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called for calm, encouraging Trump and Zelensky to finalize the U.S.-backed minerals’ agreement.
Zelensky has been vague about what specific security guarantees Ukraine needs. While he remains committed to Ukraine joining NATO in the future, he has suggested that a similar security arrangement could work as an alternative.
However, on Wednesday, Trump indicated that Ukraine should “forget about” joining NATO.
