Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) took a direct jab at Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging him to “toughen up” following Rubio’s defense of President Trump in light of a tense meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington. In the aftermath of the public confrontation involving Zelensky, Trump, and Vice President Vance, Rubio expressed gratitude to the president for demonstrating unprecedented courage in standing up for America, proclaiming, “Thank you for prioritizing America first. The nation stands in solidarity with you!”
Swalwell, a vocal critic of Trump, did not hold back in calling out Rubio for his response to the tumultuous meeting. In a post on the social media platform X, Swalwell confronted Rubio, questioning, “Bro, did you actually pen this statement? We all witnessed your reaction. You attempted to shrink into your seat. Your discomfort was palpable as if Trump was an eccentric relative embarrassing you on a first date. Let’s not deceive anyone. Show some backbone.”
Seated alongside Vance with a neutral expression during the Oval Office meeting, Rubio remained composed as tensions escalated. Vance, in turn, launched a scathing critique against Zelensky, who displayed doubts regarding the feasibility of reaching a peace agreement with Russia and its President Vladimir Putin. Accusing Zelensky of disrespect, Vance admonished the Ukrainian leader for bringing the issue to the American public eye at the White House, labeling it as inappropriate.
Pointing out Ukraine’s reliance on conscripts due to manpower shortages, Vance asserted that Zelensky should appreciate Trump’s efforts to resolve the conflict. With a background as a former senator from Ohio, Vance underscored Zelensky’s alleged lack of gratitude for the military support provided by the U.S. to Kyiv since Russia’s incursion over three years prior.
In the aftermath of the meeting, President Trump rebuked Zelensky, asserting that he was unprepared to negotiate a peace settlement and accusing him of showing disrespect towards the United States. Trump suggested that Zelensky should return to the White House when he is ready to engage in fruitful peace talks. Expressing gratitude towards Trump, Zelensky emphasized Kyiv’s pursuit of a fair and enduring peace.
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