Trump, Zelensky Clash in Heated Oval Office Meeting over Ukraine War

US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky engaged in a heated exchange at the Oval Office on Friday, casting uncertainty over efforts to end the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.

During the meeting, President Trump pressured Zelensky to negotiate a peace deal with Russia, warning, “You’re either going to make a deal, or we’re out.” He accused Zelensky of “gambling with the lives of millions of people” and risking a potential “World War Three.”

The meeting, intended to ease tensions following the US’s sudden diplomatic outreach to Russia, escalated after Vice President JD Vance suggested the need for diplomacy to end the war. Zelensky questioned the type of diplomacy being proposed, prompting Vance to label his response as “disrespectful” in the president’s office.

The discussion also touched on past US efforts to deter Russian aggression, particularly the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Trump expressed frustration, accusing Zelensky of lacking gratitude for US support and warning that negotiations would be difficult without a shift in attitude.

Zelensky, in a calm tone, defended Ukraine’s position and criticized the US delegation for their loud rhetoric.

The clash followed Trump’s recent direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which began without Ukraine’s involvement. The US has tied its continued support for Ukraine to securing preferential access to Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals and other natural resources, though Trump has yet to offer security guarantees as part of any truce.

Trump softened his rhetoric towards Zelensky during a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, acknowledging his respect for the Ukrainian leader. However, Trump maintains that securing resource deals is necessary to justify US aid.

While Britain and France have offered peacekeeping forces in the event of a ceasefire, they insist on US involvement, including intelligence support and possible air power.

Despite the diplomatic tensions, Russia’s offensive on Ukraine’s borders continues, with reports of Russian infantry storming Ukrainian positions near the Kursk region on Friday.