U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met at the White House on February 28, 2025, to discuss a minerals agreement and continued U.S. support for Ukraine’s war effort. However, the meeting took a dramatic turn, ending abruptly without a signed deal.
Tensions escalated when Vice President JD Vance criticized Ukraine’s diplomatic approach, suggesting Kyiv was too demanding of U.S. aid. Trump further accused Zelenskyy of lacking gratitude for previous assistance and warned that Ukraine’s refusal to negotiate with Russia could prolong the war.
Zelenskyy firmly defended Ukraine’s stance, stating that bowing to Russian demands would compromise the country’s sovereignty. The disagreement led to the cancellation of joint events, including a planned press conference.
Global Reactions
🔹 European leaders voiced strong support for Zelenskyy, criticizing Trump’s treatment of the Ukrainian president.
🔹 Russia welcomed the discord, viewing it as a sign of weakening Western support for Ukraine.
🔹 The White House has not clarified whether negotiations with Kyiv will continue.
With uncertainty looming over U.S. military aid, the meeting signals a potential shift in America’s stance on Ukraine’s war efforts.
