Following his visit to the US, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is heading to the UK, lacking a mineral deal or security guarantees. His meeting with President Trump at the White House did not go smoothly, resulting in a clash of words and serious accusations from Trump. Zelensky had hoped to persuade Trump to distance himself from Russian President Vladimir Putin, unfortunately, the outcome was the opposite.
After the meeting, President Zelensky expressed to Fox News that Trump should support Ukraine rather than be indifferent. He is now departing the US to attend a summit on Ukraine led by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London.
Read More: Why did Trump and Zelensky clash on-camera? Miscommunication during a 45-minute press conference
Zelensky to attend London Ukraine summit
The upcoming summit in London is significant as it gathers major European leaders amidst growing tensions between Trump and Europe. Leaders from Italy, Germany, Poland, and other allies are expected to join. During the discussions with Zelensky, Trump sarcastically remarked that “France and Britain are committed enough to send their people for Ukraine's security.”
When asked if Zelensky should apologize to Trump, he stated that being open and honest is crucial and he doubts they committed any wrongdoings. On whether Ukraine can win the war without the US, he said, “It will be challenging for us,” emphasizing the importance of US support.
The Ukrainian President asserted that Ukraine desires peace and diplomacy involving Ukraine, Russia, the US, and Europe, stating, “We shouldn't lose Europe.” Regarding the mineral deal, Zelensky remarked, “We need to sign this, yet it's insufficient.” He also mentioned no plans to return to the White House.
Trump heads to Florida, no return plans!
Meanwhile, the White House stated that President Donald Trump is not interested in restarting the Ukraine mineral deal at this time. A senior White House official told Reuters Trump has no intentions of discussing this matter currently. Additionally, Trump moved to his home in Florida with no immediate plans of returning.
Read More: Support for Zelensky grows in Europe post-White House clash, as Biden's party backs him
In a recent address, Trump stated, “The country is doing well; we're respected globally. Japan, the UK, and India support us. The meeting with Zelensky didn't go well; he overplayed his hand wanting us to sign, but we won't. Zelensky persists in conflict, while Putin seeks to end the war.”
Trump ousted Zelensky from the White House!
A heated exchange occurred between President Trump and President Zelensky during a press conference leading to the abrupt halting of discussion and no mineral deal. Trump ended the talks, and Zelensky returned to his hotel from the White House.
The White House disclosed that Zelensky was asked to leave. An unnamed official reported that, post-meeting, the Ukrainian leader attempted to steer the visit back on track. However, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Foreign Minister Marco Rubio informed Ukrainian officials that Trump told Zelensky to leave the White House immediately.
