A heated confrontation erupted in the Oval Office on Friday between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, casting doubt on future U.S. aid to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
The meeting, intended to solidify support for Ukraine, quickly deteriorated as Trump and Vice President JD Vance accused Zelenskyy of ingratitude and unwillingness to pursue peace. Trump admonished Zelenskyy, saying he was “gambling with world war three.”
The fallout was immediate. Senator Lindsey Graham, previously supportive of Ukraine, criticized Zelenskyy’s conduct, saying, “What I saw in the Oval Office was disrespectful, and I don’t know if we can ever do business with Zelenskyy again.” He added, “He either needs to resign and send somebody over that we can do business with, or he needs to change.”
This incident has deepened divisions within the Republican Party. Senator Bill Hagerty remarked, “The United States of America will no longer be taken for granted.” Conversely, Representative Don Bacon expressed support for Ukraine, calling it “a bad day for America’s foreign policy” and emphasizing that Ukraine seeks “independence, free markets, and rule of law.”
European leaders swiftly rallied behind Zelenskyy. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, criticizing Trump’s approach.
The discord raises concerns about the future of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, which is crucial for its defense against Russian aggression. Zelenskyy expressed hope for mending relations, emphasizing the importance of continued U.S. support.
