Trump, Zelensky clash in heated White House meeting

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Friday, February 28th, 2025

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RKI Network
WASHINGTON – A meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House, originally set for the signing of a minerals deal, erupted into a tense exchange over U.S. policy on Ukraine and the ongoing war with Russia.
During the discussion, Vice President J.D. Vance accused Zelensky of disrespecting Trump by debating U.S. policy in front of the media, to which Zelensky retorted that Vance had never set foot in Ukraine. The tension escalated as Trump told Zelensky he was “gambling with World War III” and criticized his stance on U.S. support.
Trump defended his diplomatic approach toward Russian President Vladimir Putin, arguing that a balanced stance was necessary to reach a deal. He acknowledged Zelensky’s strong opposition to Putin but noted that it complicated peace negotiations. Zelensky, visibly frustrated, opposed Trump’s ceasefire proposal, citing past violations by Putin.
The meeting came as the Trump administration continues to push for a ceasefire and subsequent peace talks. Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s reliance on U.S. aid, calling it “crucial,” but his resistance to the proposed ceasefire drew criticism from Trump.
Despite the confrontation, both leaders had initially expressed optimism about a minerals agreement, which aims to strengthen economic ties between Ukraine and the U.S. The deal, yet to be finalized, would facilitate U.S. access to Ukraine’s resources for military and AI applications.
Trump praised Ukrainian forces but stressed that “it’s enough” and urged for an end to the war. With the minerals deal still pending, the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations remains uncertain following the intense Oval Office exchange.