Zelenskyy Refuses to Apologize to Trump Following Heated Oval Office Meeting
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected calls to apologize to President Donald Trump after a tense exchange in the Oval Office that ultimately led to the collapse of a planned economic partnership between the two countries.
The confrontation started when Vice President JD Vance praised Trump for his direct negotiations with Russia over the war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy disagreed, stating that Russia had proven to be an untrustworthy partner, leading Vance to accuse him of being disrespectful to Trump.
During a Fox News interview with Bret Baier, Zelenskyy initially avoided addressing the question of an apology. “I’m very thankful to Americans for all your support,” he said. “You helped us a lot… I respect the president and the American people.” However, when pressed, he stood firm, adding, “I think we have to be open and honest, and I don’t think we did anything wrong.”
Zelenskyy had come to Washington to sign an economic partnership deal that would give the U.S. access to vital minerals in Ukraine in exchange for military support. However, the meeting quickly escalated when Trump and Vance accused Zelenskyy of not being grateful for American aid. Trump, in particular, criticized the Ukrainian president for prolonging the war while using American resources.
“You don’t have the cards right now. You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people,” Trump said. “What you’re doing is disrespectful to the country that’s backed you.”
After the heated exchange, Zelenskyy left the White House, and a planned lunch and bilateral meeting were canceled. Trump later issued a statement, saying, “He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”
Trump also claimed that Zelenskyy wasn’t ready for peace as long as America was involved.
This incident sparked backlash from Ukraine’s supporters in Congress. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries condemned the interaction, calling it “appalling” and accusing Trump and Vance of embarrassing the United States on the world stage. He also stressed the importance of continuing support for Ukraine, given their alignment with U.S. national security interests, saying, “We should stand with Ukraine until victory is won.”