Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky clashed during a tense meeting at the White House, where Trump told Zelensky to strike a deal with Russia or face the US withdrawal from the conflict. 

The confrontation, which interrupted a planned discussion on a minerals deal between the two nations, escalated when Trump accused Zelensky of being ungrateful for US support and "gambling with World War Three."

The disagreement stemmed from differing views on peace negotiations with Russia. Zelensky had insisted there should be "no compromises" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, while Trump argued that Ukraine would need to make concessions for peace. 

The exchange quickly turned hostile after U.S. Vice-President JD Vance suggested diplomacy was necessary to end the war. 

Zelensky’s dismissive response to the call for peace talks led to further tensions, with Trump and Vance accusing Zelensky of disrespecting the U.S. and failing to appreciate its support during the war.

After the heated exchange, Zelensky was seen leaving the White House prematurely, ahead of the planned schedule. On social media, Trump criticized Zelensky for "disrespecting the U.S." and declared that Ukraine's president was not ready for peace if America's involvement was at stake. 

Zelensky, on the other hand, expressed his gratitude to the U.S. for its support but acknowledged that the public confrontation was "not good."

The meeting sparked polarized reactions from U.S. lawmakers. Republicans, such as Senator Lindsey Graham, condemned Zelensky’s actions, while Democrats criticized Trump's treatment of Ukraine’s leader. 

Internationally, many European leaders expressed solidarity with Zelensky, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing global diplomacy in the midst of the war.

Russia, for its part, expressed satisfaction with Trump's restrained response, suggesting that Zelensky had been lucky not to face physical confrontation.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1250 HRS, FEB 01, 2025
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