The confrontation in the Oval Office on Friday erupted when Vance suggested that diplomacy is the key to peace between Russia and Ukraine. Zelenskyy disagreed, pointing out Russia’s history of breaking agreements with his government. “He has killed our people and refused to exchange prisoners,” Zelenskyy stated in reference to Russian President Vladimir Putin. “What kind of diplomacy are you talking about, JD? What do you mean?” he questioned.”I am referring to the diplomacy that will put an end to the devastation of your country,” Vance retorted, expressing his disapproval of discussing this matter in front of the American media. When Vance mentioned Ukraine’s challenges in recruiting troops, Zelenskyy challenged him, highlighting Vance’s lack of firsthand experience in his country. “I have seen and heard the stories,” Vance defended himself. “You bring people on a propaganda tour, Mr. President.”Zelenskyy questioned the respectfulness of criticizing the administration in the Oval Office of the United States. He emphasized that everyone faces difficulties during war and implied that the U.S. is shielded from the war’s impact by the ocean between the two countries. Zelenskyy warned that while the U.S. might not feel the effects now, it will in the future.Trump raised his voice and accused Zelenskyy of risking World War III and disrespecting the U.S. He insisted that Ukraine needs to make a deal or face the consequences without U.S. support. Trump and Vance criticized Zelenskyy for not showing enough gratitude for U.S. assistance, despite Zelenskyy’s previous expressions of thanks.Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., who met with Zelenskyy, commented on the confrontation in the Oval Office, attributing it to Vance’s presence.Republican supporters of Trump praised his handling of the meeting, emphasizing America’s strength and refusal to be exploited. Rep. Brian Mast and Sen. Lindsey Graham commended Trump for standing up for the country.
Senator Lindsey Graham, who has been a supporter of U.S. aid to Ukraine, criticized the meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy as a “complete, utter disaster.” Speaking to reporters outside the White House after attending the meeting, Graham suggested that Zelenskyy should either resign and be replaced with someone more agreeable to the U.S., or he should change his approach. The handling of the meeting by President Trump and Secretary of State Vance was condemned by Democrats who accused them of appeasing Putin. Senator Chris Coons described the behavior in the Oval Office as disgraceful and a betrayal of American values.
Zelenskyy’s visit was anticipated to involve discussions about a potential deal for the U.S. to access Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals. President Trump mentioned progress in negotiations for the U.S. to have a significant stake in Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals as repayment for U.S. support since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Peace talks between U.S. and Russian officials were initiated in Saudi Arabia, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Trump had criticized Zelenskyy for allegedly taking advantage of U.S. support and pushing for military spending.
The proposed minerals agreement aimed to establish a long-term economic partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine. However, Zelenskyy rejected the initial U.S. offer, citing concerns about security guarantees and insisting on Ukrainian involvement in U.S.-Russia talks. Trump reacted angrily to Zelenskyy’s rejection and accusations, labeling him a “Dictator without Elections” and questioning his importance in negotiations to end the war.
“I have to be honest with you. He’s been there for three years. He makes it very hard to make deals,” Trump stated.
He struck a more conciliatory tone on Thursday during a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“We’re going to get along really well,” Trump expressed regarding Zelenskyy. “I have a lot of respect for him. We’ve given him a lot of equipment and a lot of money, but they have fought very bravely, no matter how you figure.”
