A meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump at the White House ended in disarray on Friday, with Zelensky departing less than an hour after a shouting match erupted.
The altercation occurred after US Vice President JD Vance began lecturing Zelensky, accusing him of lacking gratitude towards the US for its aid in combating Russian forces.
The meeting was intended to mark the signing of a mineral rights deal between the US and Ukraine, but it quickly turned sour. Trump took to his Truth Social site to announce the collapse of the talks, stating that Zelensky was “not ready for peace” and had disrespected the US in the Oval Office.
According to eyewitnesses, the atmosphere in the Oval Office was tense, with Vance and Zelensky engaging in a heated exchange. Vance criticized Zelensky for contradicting Trump in front of reporters, echoing Russian propaganda talking points about Ukraine’s use of a military draft.
Zelensky responded by inviting Vance to visit Ukraine and witness the conflict firsthand. However, Vance dismissed the offer, accusing Zelensky of hosting “propaganda tours” for visiting American politicians.
The incident has raised concerns about the future of US-Ukraine relations and the potential consequences for Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia. The White House has yet to comment on the matter, but sources close to the administration have expressed disappointment and frustration with the outcome of the meeting.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the relationship between the US and Ukraine has reached a critical juncture, and the consequences of this meeting will be felt for a long time to come.