Abdelrahman
In a meeting at the Oval Office on Friday, President Trump engaged with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington, D.C.
Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images
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Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images
The anticipated agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine, aimed at bringing an end to the ongoing conflict with Russia, faced challenges on Friday following a tense encounter between President Trump and President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office.
During the meeting, Trump told Zelenskyy that he “didn’t seem grateful” for the assistance Ukraine had received from the U.S. He further accused the Ukrainian leader of being dismissive and cautioned him, “You’re risking World War III.”
Despite Zelenskyy’s attempts to express his respect for the U.S., Trump continued to raise his voice, prompting the cancellation of a planned press briefing afterward. Zelenskyy exited the White House without speaking to reporters.
While in Washington, Zelenskyy had aimed to finalize a deal securing U.S. access to vital Ukrainian rare earth and critical minerals, but the intense dialogue and raised voices during their meeting cast doubt on the future of these negotiations.
The disagreement became pronounced during a lengthy exchange with reporters, where Trump justified his approach toward Russian President Vladimir Putin, asserting he was attempting to mediate between the opposing sides.
“I’m not aligned with anyone. My alignment is with the United States of America and working towards global peace. I want to resolve this conflict,” Trump stated. Vice President Vance supported Trump’s strategies, labeling them as essential diplomacy.
This prompted a stern reply from Zelenskyy, who highlighted that previous agreements with Putin had been breached. “He ignored the truce. He has taken lives. What do you mean by diplomacy?” Zelenskyy questioned, voicing his call for stronger security assurances in any potential resolution to the conflict.
Trump later informed the press, “We need to see an immediate ceasefire.”
Vance accused Zelenskyy of trying to “ litigate this in front of the American media,” suggesting he was engaged in promoting narratives against the U.S. administration. Zelenskyy, in response, urged, “Have you visited Ukraine? Do you understand our struggles?”
Vance urged Zelenskyy to express gratitude for the American support. However, Zelenskyy remarked, “During wartime, everyone faces challenges, including you. But look at your peaceful landscape while we suffer.” Trump interrupted, asserting, “Do not dictate our feelings; we are addressing a serious issue.”
As their voices escalated amidst a heated exchange, Zelenskyy cautioned, “You will understand the repercussions of this situation.”
Zelenskyy reflects on the contentious meeting
Following the discussion, Trump shared on social media that he believed “President Zelenskyy is unprepared for peace.”
Zelenskyy, in an interview with Fox News, stated that Ukraine is indeed “prepared for peace,” emphasizing the necessity for security guarantees. He expressed disappointment over the public nature of their disagreement, wishing it had remained private. “Yes, I don’t think that was appropriate,” he remarked.
Zelenskyy conveyed gratitude for the U.S. support in Ukraine’s battle against Russia. “We’re appreciative of the American aid. You’ve contributed significantly. I thank President Trump and the bipartisan support from Congress,” he stated.
When asked about a potential apology to Trump, Zelenskyy steered clear of a direct response, but expressed optimism about mending their relationship, confirming, “Yes, absolutely.”
“A new leader for the free world is essential”
This encounter signified a notable change in the way Ukraine’s leader was received in Washington, attracting criticism from prominent Democratic figures.
“President Trump and his administration continue to bring embarrassment to America globally,” stated House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “Trump and Vance serve the interests of Putin,” remarked Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on social media.
European leaders have echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the necessity for persistent support for Ukraine.
Leaders from France and Britain, who have visited the White House recently, assured Zelenskyy of Europe’s unwavering support. “Russia is the aggressor, while Ukraine is the nation suffering from this aggression,” stated French President Emmanuel Macron.
Macron demanded respect for Ukraine’s struggle for independence. “We will amplify our support for Ukraine,” affirmed Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, adding, “It’s evident that the free world requires a new leader. This is a challenge for us as Europeans.”
Asma Khalid contributed reporting from Washington, D.C., and Eleanor Beardsley from Paris.
