Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has received an outpouring of support from European leaders after a contentious meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House.
The meeting, which was intended to discuss a potential mineral deal, quickly devolved into a shouting match, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance accusing Zelensky of being ungrateful and unwilling to make concessions to Russia.
Trump’s abrupt U-turn on Ukraine policy has sent shockwaves throughout Europe, with many leaders expressing concern about the potential consequences of the US president’s actions. Trump has been accused of siding with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has been waging a brutal war against Ukraine since 2014.
In the aftermath of the White House meeting, European leaders have been quick to express their support for Zelensky and Ukraine. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk tweeted “You are not alone,” while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowed “unwavering support” for Kyiv. French President Emmanuel Macron has also weighed in, saying that he is ready to “open the discussion” on a possible future European nuclear deterrent.
The controversy surrounding the White House meeting has highlighted a growing divide between the US and Europe on issues related to Ukraine and Russia. While Trump has been accused of being too soft on Putin, European leaders have been vocal in their criticism of Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the US and Europe will navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries that have been exposed by the White House meeting. One thing is clear, however: European leaders are determined to stand behind Zelensky and Ukraine, even if it means challenging the US president’s policies.