A heated discussion over Ukraine’s future and the U.S. role in any peace deal took place between President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Earlier today, Zelenskyy visited the White House for a high-profile meeting. The discussion was expected to focus on a possible minerals deal and U.S. security support for Ukraine. However, the conversation quickly turned tense.
Vice President JD Vance confronted Zelenskyy, saying he had not shown gratitude during his visit. He suggested the Ukrainian leader was being disrespectful to President Trump. “Diplomacy should stop the destruction of your country,” Vance said. He also criticized Zelenskyy for debating the issue in front of the media.
Zelenskyy fired back, asking if Vance had ever visited Ukraine during the war. He pointed out that the U.S. is protected by its oceans, making it feel safer.
Trump quickly pushed back. “Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel,” he snapped. “We’re trying to solve a problem.” He added that Zelenskyy was in no position to make demands and warned that his decisions were putting millions of lives at risk.
“You either make a deal, or we are out,” Trump told him firmly. He accused Zelenskyy of gambling with World War III and warned that Ukraine was losing soldiers. “You don’t have the cards. Your people are dying. The U.S. has made you stronger, but without us, you wouldn’t be in this position.”
The meeting ended shortly after, and Zelenskyy was seen leaving the White House earlier than planned, according to BBC News.
Following the exchange, both leaders issued statements. Trump wrote on Truth Social that the meeting was meaningful but showed that Zelenskyy was “not ready for peace if America is involved.” He added that the Ukrainian leader “disrespected the U.S. in the Oval Office” and could return when ready for peace.
Zelenskyy responded on X, saying, “Thank you, America, for your support. Ukraine needs a just and lasting peace, and we are working toward that.”
With no agreements reached, the impact of this tense meeting remains uncertain.