Trump-Zelenskyy meeting ends in dispute
A highly anticipated meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House ended in a heated dispute, leading to the collapse of a proposed minerals agreement and heightened tensions between the two nations.
The Oval Office meeting, which included Vice President J.D. Vance, was intended to finalize a framework for U.S. investment in Ukraine's mineral resources. However, discussions deteriorated as President Trump accused Zelenskyy of being unwilling to pursue peace with Russia, stating, "I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations."
The confrontation escalated when Zelenskyy resisted making concessions without stronger security guarantees, prompting Trump to accuse him of "gambling with World War Three." The disagreement led to the cancellation of a planned press conference and Zelenskyy's abrupt departure from the White House.
In the aftermath, President Trump announced the suspension of the minerals deal and indicated a potential reevaluation of U.S. military aid to Ukraine. He expressed his frustrations on social media, asserting that Zelenskyy had "overplayed his hand" and was prolonging the conflict with Russia.
The incident drew sharp reactions domestically and internationally. European leaders voiced strong support for Zelenskyy, condemning Trump's treatment of the Ukrainian president and reaffirming their commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty. Within the United States, Democratic lawmakers criticized Trump's behavior, with Senator Chuck Schumer stating that Trump and Vance were "doing Putin's dirty work." Conversely, some Republican allies praised Trump's stance, emphasizing an "America First" approach.
President Zelenskyy expressed regret over the public confrontation but stood firm on Ukraine's need for genuine security assurances. He later conveyed gratitude to the American people, emphasizing Ukraine's desire for peace.
