Zelensky Optimistic About Repairing Ties with Trump After Heated White House Clash

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope on Friday that his relationship with the United States could be repaired following a dramatic confrontation with President Donald Trump at the White House. The incident, which unfolded in front of US and international media, saw Trump accusing Zelensky of refusing to accept proposed peace terms with Russia and failing to show gratitude for US support.

When asked in a Fox News interview whether the strained relationship could be salvaged, Zelensky responded, “Of course.” He emphasized that US-Ukrainian ties extend beyond the two leaders, underscoring Ukraine’s critical need for Washington’s support in its ongoing struggle against Russia’s larger and more powerful military. “It will be difficult without your support,” Zelensky said during the interview, which aired on Trump’s preferred news channel.

The heated exchange occurred during a meeting in the Oval Office, where Trump and Vice President JD Vance reportedly shouted at Zelensky, accusing him of overplaying his hand and refusing to accept their proposed truce terms. “You don’t have the cards right now,” Trump told Zelensky. “You’re either going to make a deal or we’re out, and if we’re out, you’ll fight it out, and I don’t think it’s going to be pretty.”

The confrontation ended with Zelensky leaving the White House early, without signing a minerals-sharing agreement seen as crucial to a potential US-brokered ceasefire. Trump later posted on social media that Zelensky could return “when he is ready for peace.” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who witnessed the altercation, told Fox News that the Ukrainian delegation was asked to leave the room and then the building.

Despite the tense encounter, Zelensky refused to apologize, telling Fox News, “I’m not sure that we did something bad.” However, he expressed regret that the argument had unfolded in front of reporters. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later called on Zelensky to “apologize for wasting our time” during an appearance on CNN.

European Allies Rally Behind Ukraine
The incident prompted swift reactions from US allies in Europe, who are increasingly concerned that Trump’s approach could force Ukraine into a peace deal that effectively hands victory to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk assured Zelensky, “You are not alone,” while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s “unwavering support” for Kyiv. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called for an urgent summit involving the US, Europe, and other allies to address the situation.

In the US, top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer accused Trump and Vance of “doing Putin’s dirty work.” Meanwhile, Russia celebrated the fallout, with former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev labeling Zelensky an “insolent pig” who had received “a proper slap down in the Oval Office.”

Ukraine Stands Firm
At home, Zelensky received widespread support, with Ukraine’s army chief vowing to stand by him and the foreign minister praising his “bravery.” Many Ukrainians echoed this sentiment, with 26-year-old Valentyn Burianov telling AFP in Kyiv, “He did what he must.”

The clash highlighted the growing tension between Ukraine and the US over the terms of a potential peace deal. Trump has repeatedly called for Ukraine to make “compromises” in negotiations with Russia, a stance Zelensky has firmly rejected. “There should be no compromises with a killer on our territory,” Zelensky said during the meeting, referencing Putin.

Trump’s abrupt shift in US policy has alarmed Kyiv and European allies. He has positioned himself as a mediator between Putin and Zelensky, refusing to condemn Russia’s invasion and expressing trust in Putin to “keep his word” on a ceasefire. During the Oval Office meeting, Trump revealed that he had spoken to Putin “on numerous occasions,” more than previously disclosed.

Despite the tensions, Zelensky expressed hope that Trump would align more closely with Ukraine’s position. “I wish he was really more on our side,” he told Fox News.

As the diplomatic fallout continues, Russia’s assault on Ukraine shows no signs of abating. On Friday, Kyiv reported that Russian infantry were storming the Ukrainian border from the Kursk region, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty.