Trump Slams Zelenskyy as ‘Not a Man for Peace’ After Explosive Oval Office Clash
A tense meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy turned chaotic on Friday, The White House showdown ended with no progress on a critical mineral deal and Zelenskyy’s team being asked to leave. Trump later blasted Zelenskyy, saying he’s “not a man that wants to make peace,” sparking global headlines.
The clash began when Zelenskyy visited the Oval Office, hoping to secure U.S. support against Russia’s ongoing invasion. Instead, Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized him sharply. Trump accused Zelenskyy of disrespecting America, shouting, “You’re gambling with World War III.” Vance joined in, questioning if Zelenskyy had thanked the U.S. for its aid
Zelenskyy fought back, stressing Ukraine’s need for security guarantees before any peace talks with Russia. “What kind of diplomacy are you speaking about?” he asked Vance, pointing to Russia’s history of breaking agreements. Trump interrupted, saying, “You don’t have the cards right now,” and ended the meeting abruptly.
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No deal was signed, and a planned joint press event was canceled. Trump took to Truth Social, writing, “Zelenskyy disrespected the United States in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he’s ready for peace.” Later, he told reporters Zelenskyy must say “I want to make peace” instead of criticizing Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Zelenskyy, speaking to Fox News after leaving, thanked Americans but stood firm. “Ukraine needs a just and lasting peace,” he said, admitting the spat wasn’t good for either side. European leaders like France’s Emmanuel Macron and Poland’s Donald Tusk rallied behind Ukraine, calling Russia the aggressor.
The fallout has left U.S.-Ukraine ties in limbo. Trump hinted at cutting military aid, a move that could shift the war’s course. Meanwhile, Russia’s Dmitry Medvedev mocked Zelenskyy, calling him an “ungrateful pig.”
