The meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, at the White House on Friday has sparked a new rift between Washington and Kyiv. The meeting, which was intended to discuss the pact on Ukrainian rare lands, was marked by a tense confrontation in front of the press, with JD Vance also participating.
The discussion turned heated when Trump stated that Zelenskyy was not in a position to issue conditions on war. Vance intervened, calling it “disrespect” that the Ukrainian leader attempted to discuss the issue in the Oval Office. Trump then weighed in, reminding Zelenskyy that “you don’t have the letters in your favor now,” warning him that he was “playing” with the lives of millions of people and the possibility of a third world war. Trump emphasized that Zelenskyy’s actions were “a great lack of respect for this country.”
Following the tense exchange, the White House confirmed the cancellation of the planned press and lunch meeting, and Zelenskyy left the presidential residence without clarifying whether an agreement had been reached on a joint investment fund. According to reports, the fund would have seen Ukraine contribute 50% of future benefits obtained from its natural resources, including gas, oil, and rare earths, which are crucial for technological development.
“You’re not alone”
International reactions to the meeting were swift. Former Russian President Dmitri Medvedev was among the first to comment, posting on social media that “the insolent pig finally received a good slap in the Oval Office.” Medvedev agreed with Trump, stating that the Kyiv regime is “playing with the third world war.”
In contrast, European leaders rallied around Zelenskyy. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk tweeted, “Dear Zelenskyy, dear Ukrainian friends, you are not alone.” Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also took to social media, saying, “Ukraine, Spain is with you.”
European Support
From Portugal, where he is on a state visit, French President Emmanuel Macron told the press that “the aggressor is Russia” and that Ukraine is fighting for its dignity, independence, and security, as well as that of Europe. Macron stressed that it is “important” to support Ukraine, calling the situation a “shameful show.” His comments reflect the widespread support for Ukraine among European leaders, who are keen to emphasize that Zelenskyy is not isolated in his dealings with the US.
