Tensions rise as Trump accuses Zelenskyy of disrespecting the U.S.
Negotiations for a Ukraine-Russia peace deal collapsed Friday after a heated meeting between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The talks ended with a canceled press conference, a minerals deal scrapped, and Trump asking Zelenskyy to leave, according to a White House official.
Trump accused Zelenskyy of disrespecting the U.S. and claimed the Ukrainian leader sought to use American involvement as leverage. “He can come back when he is ready for peace,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Zelenskyy had arrived in Washington for negotiations, including a minerals trade agreement granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s resources in exchange for ongoing military support. However, tensions escalated when Zelenskyy criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin’s trustworthiness, prompting Trump and Vice President JD Vance to accuse him of ingratitude.
“You’re gambling with World War III,” Trump warned, while Vance pressed Zelenskyy on whether he had ever thanked the U.S. for its aid. Zelenskyy responded by emphasizing Ukraine’s struggles and the need for European support, leading to a back-and-forth over financial contributions.
Following the meeting, Zelenskyy took to social media to express gratitude to the U.S. despite the clash. “Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that,” he posted.
This latest confrontation adds to weeks of rising tensions as Trump, Zelenskyy, and other world leaders navigate the fragile path to ending the war in Ukraine.
Source: Foxnews