Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy publicly confronted statements made by US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The disagreement began with Zelensky’s insistence on Ukraine being provided with security guarantees and its active involvement in the peace negotiation process with Russia. In contrast, Trump argued that Ukraine and the US should first finalize a mineral extraction agreement before discussing security guarantees.
After addressing the press, the presidents were scheduled to hold one-on-one talks, followed by a press conference with concluding statements. However, after the televised exchange Zelenskyy was asked to leave the White House.
The American leader stated that Zelenskyy was not ready for peace, claimed he had shown disrespect for the US, and mentioned that the Ukrainian president “can return when he is ready for peace.” Trump does not dismiss the possibility of an agreement with Zelenskyy but currently has no plans for continued negotiations. It has also been reported that the Trump administration demanded a public apology from Zelenskyy.
Meanwhile, senior European officials voiced their support for Zelenskyy, condemning the Trump and Vance’s actions.