Unprecedented Confrontation at the White House

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, U.S. President Donald Trump, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance engaged in a direct confrontation in front of cameras in the Oval Office of the White House.

Trump and Zelensky Debate
In the first half-hour, the meeting at the White House on February 28 (U.S. time), part of Zelensky’s visit to the U.S., proceeded relatively smoothly. However, tensions rose when Vice President JD Vance stated, “The path to peace and prosperity may lie in diplomacy.”

“That is exactly what President Trump is working towards,” Vance added.

Zelensky immediately reacted, elaborating on the history of the conflict in Ukraine since 2014 and previous failed attempts to restore peace.

“What kind of diplomacy are you referring to, JD?” he questioned.

Vice President Vance hesitated momentarily before responding, “I am talking about diplomacy that will prevent your country from further destruction.” He then accused the Ukrainian president of being “disrespectful” and suggested that Zelensky should “thank President Trump for trying to end the conflict.”

“Do you think coming to the Oval Office of the United States and attacking an administration that is trying to stop your country from being destroyed is a sign of respect?”

The heated exchange dramatically shifted the tone of the White House meeting, turning it into a public confrontation between U.S. and Ukrainian leaders—an unprecedented scenario that stunned international observers.

President Trump Joins the Discussion
As Zelensky and Vance debated, Trump remained largely silent, listening attentively. However, he soon intervened following one of Zelensky’s statements.

Initially seated comfortably, Zelensky gradually leaned forward, moving closer to Vice President Vance, his arms crossed in a defensive stance.

When Vance brought up challenges faced by the Ukrainian military, Zelensky countered, “Everyone has problems.”

“In war, everyone has problems, including you. You have a great ocean (referring to the U.S. being geographically insulated—Editor’s note) and do not feel it now, but you will in the future,” Zelensky warned.

“Don’t tell us how we will feel. We are working to solve this problem,” Trump responded angrily. “You are not in a position to dictate this. We will continue to feel just fine.”

“You will experience the consequences. I am telling you this,” Zelensky retorted.

“You are putting yourselves in a very bad position,” Trump shot back. “You have no leverage. With us, you start to have leverage.”

“I don’t play games. I am serious, Mr. President. I am a wartime president…”

“You are playing games. You are gambling with the lives of millions. You are gambling with World War III. And what you are doing is deeply disrespectful to the country that is supporting you.”

Vice President Vance joined in: “Have you even said ‘thank you’ once during this entire conversation? No, you haven’t. Show some gratitude to the U.S. and the president who is trying to save your country.”

Vance further accused Zelensky of “lobbying for the opposition”—referring to the Democratic Party—in Pennsylvania. Back in September 2024, Zelensky had visited Biden’s hometown in Pennsylvania, just weeks before the U.S. presidential election.

Intensified Debate
Zelensky later asserted that Ukraine had been “alone” since the beginning of the conflict. This remark once again provoked an irate response from Trump.

“You are not alone. We have given you—through this ‘stupid’ president—$350 billion,” Trump said. He also declared that Ukraine was “facing serious problems” and “cannot win.” Instead, he suggested that Ukraine “has a better chance of achieving an acceptable outcome thanks to us.”

Trump Pushes for a Ceasefire
Trump warned Ukraine about its dwindling troop numbers and insisted that Ukraine should accept an immediate ceasefire.

“Of course, we want to end the war,” Zelensky affirmed.

“But you say you don’t want a ceasefire,” Trump countered.

“As I have told you, with guarantees…”

“I want a ceasefire. A ceasefire can come faster than a formal agreement,” Trump insisted. “You need to be more grateful. With us, you have leverage. Without us, you have none.”

Trump took one final question from reporters before concluding the meeting. “I think we’ve seen enough. This will make for great television,” he remarked.

After the meeting, Zelensky posted a message on social media platform X, thanking the U.S., its president, Congress, and the American people. Meanwhile, Trump accused Zelensky of being “disrespectful” to the U.S.

“He was disrespectful to the United States in the Oval Office,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “He can return when he is ready for peace.”