In a dramatic Oval Office confrontation, U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance clashed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of “gambling with World War Three” and pressuring him to make peace with Russia.
The heated exchange, captured on video, marks a significant shift in U.S.-Ukraine relations under Trump’s administration.
Trump reportedly told Zelensky that unless he agrees to a settlement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. support could be withdrawn. The meeting, initially expected to solidify military and economic cooperation, ended abruptly, with a much-anticipated minerals deal left unsigned and Zelensky being asked to leave the White House.
Zelensky, who has consistently opposed any compromise with Russia, rejected Trump’s position, reiterating that Ukraine would not negotiate under duress. “There should be no compromises with Putin,” he stated firmly. His stance has been backed by many European allies, who fear that a forced settlement could embolden Moscow.
Following the tense meeting, Zelensky told Fox News that the fallout was “not good for both sides” but expressed hope that the relationship between Ukraine and the U.S. could still be salvaged.
However, the incident has raised concerns about the future of American aid to Ukraine, which has been a critical factor in its ongoing war effort.
