Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a tense discussion at the White House on February 28, accompanied by Vice President JD Vance. The conversation, focused on Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia, quickly became heated due to differing views on U.S. involvement.
Trump pushed Zelenskyy to engage in talks with Russia, making it clear that Ukraine could not take American support for granted. In a widely circulated video clip, Trump can be heard telling Zelenskyy, “You either make a deal or we’re out.” He continued, “We decide how we feel, not you. We will act in a way that is best for us.”
Zelenskyy, standing firm, emphasized Ukraine’s determination to defend its independence. Trump, however, criticized Ukraine’s current position, saying, “You’re not in a strong position. You let yourself end up here. You’re risking millions of lives. You’re betting on World War III.”
Vice President Vance interjected, questioning whether Zelenskyy had expressed any appreciation for U.S. assistance. “Have you thanked anyone in this meeting?” he asked. He also pointed out that Zelenskyy had traveled to Pennsylvania in October to support political rivals.
The meeting ended abruptly, and a planned joint press conference was canceled. Zelenskyy later posted a message on social media, thanking the U.S. government and its citizens for their support. “A just and lasting peace is our goal, and we are committed to achieving it,” he wrote.
Trump also shared his perspective on the meeting via his Truth Social account. He described the discussion as intense and suggested that Zelenskyy was unwilling to seek peace while relying on U.S. aid. “I don’t seek advantage, I seek peace,” Trump stated. “His behavior in the Oval Office was unacceptable. He can return when he is ready to have a serious discussion.”
The encounter highlighted major disagreements between the two leaders regarding the war’s future and U.S. involvement. While Zelenskyy continues to push for military and financial aid, Trump has signaled a shift away from U.S. intervention. Their conflicting views could influence not only the war’s outcome but also the upcoming U.S. election and global politics.
