Vice President JD Vance confronted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a tense meeting at the White House on Friday. The discussion took a dramatic turn when Vance felt Zelensky was not showing enough respect to President Donald Trump.
Vance spoke firmly after Zelensky repeatedly interrupted and questioned Trump’s statements.
“Mr. President, with respect, I think it’s disrespectful for you to come into the Oval Office and try to argue this in front of the American media,” Vance said.
A source familiar with the meeting told DailyMail.com that Zelensky’s attitude surprised American officials.
“No one expected the meeting to go this way because no one expected Zelensky to act like that,” the source said.
Vance criticized the previous administration’s approach, saying President Biden “talked tough” but failed to stop Putin’s invasion. He suggested that diplomacy could be the key to ending the war.
Zelensky responded by explaining that Russia had occupied parts of Ukraine since 2014, including Crimea, and had violated a ceasefire agreement.
“What kind of diplomacy are you talking about, JD?” Zelensky asked.
Vance replied: “The kind that will stop your country from being destroyed.”
He reminded Zelensky that Trump was trying to achieve peace and should be respected for his efforts.
“Do you think it’s respectful to argue in the Oval Office with the president who is trying to stop the war?” Vance asked.
As the discussion continued, Vance asked if Zelensky had thanked the U.S. for its support.
“Have you said thank you once? During this entire meeting?” Vance asked.
“A lot of times,” Zelensky replied. “Even today.”
Vance also criticized Zelensky’s recent visit to Pennsylvania, where he appeared alongside Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro to sign missiles and discuss Ukraine’s defense.
“You went there and campaigned with the opposition in October. Show some appreciation for the country and president helping you,” Vance said.
Zelensky dismissed Vance’s remarks, saying he was speaking “very loudly” about the war. Trump then interrupted.
“He’s not speaking loudly,” Trump said. “You should listen.”
Vance was frustrated that Zelensky kept arguing in front of the cameras.
“Just say thank you,” Vance said. “Accept that we disagree and move on, instead of fighting in the media. We know you’re wrong.”