Efforts to broker a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia reached an impasse on Friday after a high-stakes meeting between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy ended in acrimony. The fallout included a canceled joint press conference, a minerals trade agreement scrapped, and Zelenskyy being asked to leave the White House, according to a senior administration official.
Trump, visibly frustrated during the Oval Office meeting, accused Zelenskyy of « disrespecting » the United States and doubted Ukraine’s readiness for peace. Tensions boiled over when Zelenskyy criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for breaching past agreements, prompting Trump and Vice President JD Vance to defend U.S. contributions to Ukraine and question Zelenskyy’s approach to the negotiations.
Heated Exchange in the Oval Office
Trump reproached Zelenskyy for what he described as “gambling with the lives of millions.” « You’re playing cards, » Trump said. « You’re gambling with World War III. And what you’re doing is very disrespectful to this country. »
The confrontation intensified when Zelenskyy argued that the ongoing conflict with Russia would eventually impact the United States. « Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel, » Trump retorted sharply. « You are in no position to dictate that. »
Vance also questioned Zelenskyy’s gratitude for U.S. aid, asking if he had expressed thanks during the meeting. Zelenskyy responded by accusing Vance of being unnecessarily combative, saying, “You are speaking loudly.”
Trump interjected, warning the Ukrainian leader, “Your country is in big trouble.”
Disputes Over Aid and Contributions
The meeting also highlighted disagreements over international contributions to Ukraine. Zelenskyy underscored the importance of European support, but Trump dismissed the claim, arguing that U.S. assistance far outweighed Europe’s contributions. Recent estimates indicate that the U.S. has provided $119.7 billion in aid to Ukraine since January 2022, compared to Europe’s $138.7 billion over the same period.
Despite the contentious meeting, Zelenskyy later posted a message of gratitude on social media. “Thank you, America, for your support. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that,” he wrote.
Escalating Tensions
Relations between Trump and Zelenskyy have been strained in recent weeks. Zelenskyy expressed frustration over U.S.-Russia discussions held without Ukraine’s participation, accusing Trump of advancing Russian “disinformation.” Trump, in turn, labeled Zelenskyy a “dictator” in an earlier statement, though he later appeared to backtrack when pressed by reporters.
During a separate meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump indicated that peace negotiations were in advanced stages but refrained from revealing details about a proposed peacekeeping force. « I think we’re very well advanced on a deal, » he said. « But we have not made a deal yet. »
While Trump expressed confidence that Putin would honor any agreement, Zelenskyy remained skeptical, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
A Fragile Path to Peace
Friday’s events underscore the deep challenges facing any resolution to the conflict. With trust eroding on all sides and the U.S. attempting to balance its role as a mediator, the prospect of a lasting peace remains uncertain.
As negotiations stall, the world watches closely, hoping for renewed efforts to end the war that has left countless lives in peril.
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