President Zelenskyy issues statement after leaving White House as Trump accused him of ‘gambling with WW3’
A high-stakes meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former President Donald Trump of the United States took place in the White House on Friday, February 28. Vice President JD Vance was also present at this discussion.
Tensions quickly escalated during a high-stakes conversation between leaders regarding Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, as disagreements surfaced over the nature of the United States’ support and Ukraine’s strategic position in the conflict.
At the heart of the discussion, Trump pressed Zelenskyy to engage in negotiations with Russia, warning him that continued reliance on U.S. assistance was far from guaranteed. In a video that has gone viral, President Trump can be heard bluntly telling the Ukrainian leader, “You either make a deal, or we’re out.” He added, “Don’t dictate how we should feel. Our focus is on finding a solution, and when it comes to how we feel, you’re not in a position to decide.”
Zelenskyy, steadfast in his position, responded to Trump’s remarks by reaffirming Ukraine’s unwavering commitment to defending its sovereignty. However, Trump did not relent, continuing his sharp critique.
“You’re not in a good position,” Trump said, his tone firm. “You’ve put yourself in a bad spot… you don’t have the cards right now. You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people! You’re betting on World War III!”
At one point, Vice President Vance interjected, questioning Zelenskyy’s gratitude for past U.S. support. “Have you thanked anyone during this entire meeting?” Vance asked pointedly. “You went to Pennsylvania in October and campaigned for the opposition. It would be nice if you could express some gratitude to the United States of America and the president who’s working to save your country.”
Trump doubled down on his criticism, adding, “Your country is in serious trouble. Hold on a second. You’ve already talked enough. Your nation is facing huge challenges.”
Following the heated confrontation, the scheduled joint press conference was abruptly called off, and Zelenskyy left the White House without addressing the press. Shortly afterward, he took to social media to express his thanks to the United States. In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Zelenskyy wrote: “Thank you, America, for your support, and thank you for this visit. I am grateful to the President of the United States, Congress, and the American people. What Ukraine needs is a just and lasting peace, and we are working towards that goal.”
Trump also weighed in on the meeting, sharing his perspective on the discussion via his Truth Social platform. He described the meeting as a “truly significant” one.
“In the White House today, under intense pressure, we uncovered a great deal of information that could not have been understood without direct communication,” Trump stated. “From the incredible insights that come through raw emotion, I’ve concluded that President Zelenskyy is not prepared for peace if the United States remains involved. He believes our presence gives him an advantage in negotiations.”
Trump continued, “I do not seek advantage; I seek peace.” He expressed that Zelenskyy’s behavior in the Oval Office, a place of great reverence for the United States, was disrespectful, and added, “When he is ready to return, he is free to do so.”
The meeting underscored the deep divisions between the two leaders regarding the future of Ukraine’s resistance against Russia. While Trump advocated for a reduction in U.S. involvement in the conflict, Zelenskyy remains steadfast in his call for continued military and financial support, viewing Western backing as crucial in countering Russian aggression.
The clash between their viewpoints not only highlights the widening gap in U.S. foreign policy but also has significant implications for the upcoming presidential election and the broader stability of the global community.
