Zelensky’s eight-word comment that sent incensed Trump into a blind rage with tirade of insults
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was shouted down by Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance after making a comment about how the U.S. would feel if it were facing a war with Russia. The tense exchange took place in the Oval Office during what was supposed to be peace talks, but the meeting quickly turned hostile.
Trump, who initially played a more diplomatic role, lost his temper after Zelenskyy tried to explain Ukraine’s struggles against Russia. Zelenskyy said, “Everyone has problems. You have a nice ocean. You don’t feel it now, but you will feel it in the future.”
Trump immediately snapped back, yelling, “Don’t tell us what we’re gonna feel. We are trying to solve a problem. You’re in no position to dictate what we’re going to feel.” He then accused Zelenskyy of making reckless decisions, saying, “You’re gambling with World War 3 and what you’re doing is very disrespectful to this country.”
Vance also confronted Zelenskyy, accusing him of interfering in U.S. politics by allegedly supporting Kamala Harris during the 2024 election campaign. He harshly criticized Zelenskyy, saying, “You went to Pennsylvania and campaigned for the opposition in October. Offer some words to the United States of America and the president who is trying to save your country.”
When Zelenskyy told Vance to stop raising his voice, Trump quickly defended his vice president, saying, “He’s not speaking loudly. Your country is in big trouble. You’re not winning this.”
The heated argument led to Zelenskyy and his delegation being asked to leave the White House earlier than planned. A White House official confirmed that the planned news conference and the signing of a U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal were canceled.
After the meeting, Trump posted on Truth Social, calling Zelenskyy “disrespectful” and saying he was not ready for peace. “I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for peace if America is involved because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations,” Trump wrote. “I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE.” He added, “He can come back when he is ready for peace.”
