Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stepped into the White House on Friday, optimistic about productive talks with Donald Trump. His agenda was to finalize a mineral deal, which promised a robust partnership for the United States in Ukraine's future. However, instead of an agreement, Zelenskyy found himself in the glare of the global media, navigating sharp accusations from both Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
Trump insisted on greater appreciation for U.S. aid, whereas Zelenskyy stood firm against suggestions of a ceasefire with Russia. Zelenskyy’s rejection triggered Trump's retort, 'You have no status. You rely on our weapons.' Trump asserted that without U.S. military assistance, the war would have ended 'in two weeks.'
The tension mounted so intensely that Zelenskyy was urged to depart the White House prematurely, leaving the mineral deal unsigned. 'Return when you are truly ready for peace,' Trump later commented on social media.
Source: aajtak
(Photo: AP)
The unraveling of Trump and Zelenskyy's dialogue:
First Clash:
A Heated Debate Between Zelenskyy and Vance
Though initial discussions and formalities unfolded smoothly for the first half-hour, a comment from Vance ignited tensions within the Oval Office.
Vance:
With a forceful demeanor, 'Diplomacy leads the path to peace and prosperity. This is what President Trump advocates.'
Zelenskyy:
'What kind of diplomacy are you referring to, JD? What exactly do you mean?'
Source: aajtak
(Photo: AP)
Vance:
'The diplomacy that can prevent the devastation of your country.'
The Vice President accused Zelenskyy of being disrespectful, asserting there was no need to engage in debates in front of the American media.
Second Clash:
When Trump Lost His Patience
Zelenskyy:
'During wartime, everyone faces challenges, even you. But you have the ocean, so you don't feel it yet, but you might in the future.'
Source: aajtak
(Photo: AP)
Trump:
'Do not tell us what we are to feel. You are not in a position to command us. You're playing with the lives of millions. You hold no cards right now. You're gambling with the prospect of a world war.'
Third Clash:
Trump Insisted, 'You've Never Been Alone!'
Zelenskyy:
'From the start of the war, we were on our own, yet we remain thankful.'
Source: aajtak
(Photo: AP)
Trump:
'You were not alone. We provided you with $350 billion in aid.'
Vance questioned whether Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the U.S. during their meeting and accused the Ukrainian President of campaigning for the 'opposition', the Democrats, during last year's American elections.
Zelenskyy:
'Please, do you think shouting about the war is going to...'
Trump:
'He is not shouting. Your country is in significant trouble. You're not winning. Thanks to us, you have a decent chance to come out the other side.'
Source: aajtak
(Photo: AP)
Fourth Clash:
Trump’s Final Stance
Trump:
'Negotiating like this is arduous. No agreement will stand unless perspectives shift.'
Vance:
'Just say thank you...'
An eerie silence envelops the White House as Ukrainian Ambassador Oksana Markarova sits, head in hands. The meeting abruptly ends as Trump halts the dialogue, and Zelenskyy leaves for his hotel. The White House states Zelenskyy was asked to leave.
Source: aajtak
Post-meeting efforts by the Ukrainian leader to salvage the visit were reportedly thwarted as National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed Ukrainian officials that Trump had directed Zelenskyy to exit the White House immediately. The Ukrainian delegation, awaiting in an adjacent room, found themselves uninvited to the customary lunch meeting.
