Tense Exchange in the Oval Office
Washington: A high-stakes meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took an unexpected turn on Friday, escalating into a fiery argument before the Ukrainian delegation was asked to leave the White House. Reports suggest that the formal lunch with Trump remained untouched.
Diplomacy vs. War: The Debate That Sparked the Clash
The meeting—Trump and Zelensky’s first since Trump returned to power—began with handshakes and smiles but quickly escalated when US Vice President JD Vance emphasized diplomacy as the key to resolving the Russia-Ukraine war. Vance took a jab at former President Joe Biden’s approach, stating, “The path to peace is diplomacy, not just tough talk.”
WATCH IN FULL: All 46 minutes of the Oval Office meeting between President Donald J. Trump and President Zelenskyy pic.twitter.com/L88QejnhRA
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 28, 2025
Zelensky, however, challenged this notion, citing Russia’s continued aggression since 2014. He questioned the effectiveness of diplomatic deals that failed to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasions.
“You’re Gambling With World War III,” Trump Warns Zelensky
As the argument intensified, Trump directly confronted Zelensky, accusing him of mismanaging the war and disrespecting the United States.
“You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people, you’re gambling with World War III,” Trump declared.
“We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today. Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if… pic.twitter.com/CtnqXBNcW3
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) February 28, 2025
Vice President Vance further questioned whether Zelensky had shown gratitude to the US for its military support. “Offer some words of appreciation,” he demanded.
Zelensky responded, “A lot of times,” but his remarks were repeatedly interrupted by Trump.
Trump: “Come Back When You’re Ready for Peace”
Following the heated exchange, Trump took to social media, stating that Zelensky “is not ready for peace if America is involved.” He added, “He disrespected the United States in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for peace.”
US Calls for Zelensky to Apologize, Ukraine Stands Firm
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later suggested that Zelensky should apologize for the meeting’s outcome, saying, “Zelensky should apologize for wasting our time.”
However, the Ukrainian leader refused. Speaking to Fox News, Zelensky said, “I’m not sure we did something bad.” He acknowledged that he wished the exchange had not happened in front of reporters but emphasized that US-Ukrainian ties remain crucial in the fight against Russia.
