Zelensky Left White House After Heated Clash with Trump Over Ukraine War

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has left the White House following a heated confrontation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday, as tensions between the two leaders reached a boiling point over Ukraine’s ongoing war with Russia.

During the highly anticipated meeting, Trump admonished Zelensky, urging him to be “thankful” and accusing him of “gambling with World War Three.” The exchange escalated as Trump pressed the Ukrainian leader to negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin, warning, “You either make a deal, or we’re out.”

Vice President JD Vance, seated nearby, also criticized Zelensky, calling his remarks “disrespectful.” When Zelensky attempted to respond, he was reportedly cut off. The Ukrainian president had previously rebuked Trump’s stance on the war, arguing that any compromise with Putin would be unacceptable.

“You can't do any deals without compromises,” Trump insisted, reiterating his position that Ukraine must be open to concessions in order to end the conflict. Zelensky countered with a stark reminder of Russia’s war crimes, saying, “There should be no compromises with a killer on our territory.” He then displayed images of civilian atrocities, condemning the Russian military’s deportation of Ukrainian children and other alleged war crimes.

Shortly after the meeting, Trump released a statement declaring that Zelensky was “not ready for peace” and had “disrespected the Oval Office.” “He can come back when he is ready for peace,” Trump added.

Vance also doubled down on his criticism, referencing Zelensky’s previous visit to Pennsylvania, where he campaigned against Trump’s party. “I think it's disrespectful for you to come into the Oval Office and try to litigate this in front of the American media,” Vance told him. “Offer some words of appreciation for the United States of America and the president who is trying to save your country.”

The contentious meeting underscores the growing rift between the two leaders as Ukraine’s war with Russia enters its fourth year. Trump’s stance on scaling back U.S. support has raised concerns in Kyiv, as Zelensky continues to push for unwavering Western aid in the fight against Russian aggression.