Zelensky affirms Trump's support is "vital" following White House reprimand by the US president.
In the wake of a heated meeting with President Donald Trump, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky finds himself in a tricky situation. The day after abruptly ending his visit to Washington D.C., Zelensky spoke out, emphasizing the importance of U.S. support.
The encounter in the Oval Office was far from cordial. Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelensky in front of reporters, with Trump lashing out at Zelensky, accusing him of gambling with World War III. The meeting, intended to discuss a natural resources deal, quickly devolved into an argument.
European leaders swiftly rallied behind Zelensky, expressing concern over Trump's overtures to Russian President Vladimir Putin. EU's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, stating that the "free world needs a new leader." On Saturday, Zelensky appeared conciliatory, thanking the U.S. for its support and expressing a desire for peace.
Zelensky's gratitude for U.S. support was met with skepticism by Vance, who questioned whether the Ukrainian leader had been appreciative enough. In response, Zelensky reiterated his appreciation, stressing Ukraine's gratitude to Congress and the American people. He further emphasized that Ukraine and the U.S. remain strategic partners, but honesty is key to truly understanding shared goals.
series of posts on X on Saturday morning. “He wants to end the war, but no one wants peace more than we do.”
Despite the tense exchange, Zelensky is eager to sign the minerals agreement, but he insists that security guarantees are crucial. The absence of these guarantees during a ceasefire would be dangerous for Ukraine, he explained.
The clash between the two leaders has raised concerns about the future of U.S. support for Ukraine. Trump's previous criticisms and suggestion of reduced U.S. military aid could have serious implications for Ukraine's ability to resist Russian aggression. Moscow is seen to benefit from the rift, potentially leading to negotiations excluding Ukraine.
European leaders have engaged with Zelensky, but their ability to compensate for any potential U.S. withdrawal remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Zelensky is due to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer earlier today, before a broader meeting with European leaders later.
minerals agreement that he had traveled to the US to hammer out, but noted that “it’s not enough,” highlighting the absence of the security guarantees he’s been seeking.
The concerned European leaders expressed their views in an article about Zelensky, emphasizing the importance of the "free world needing a new leader" in the component of