President Donald Trump abruptly canceled a planned press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The decision came after a tense Oval Office meeting. Trump later said Zelensky was “not ready for Peace if America is involved.”
A White House official confirmed that Trump asked Zelensky to leave. The Ukrainian leader departed shortly after.
The Oval Office meeting had been heated. Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelensky, calling him ungrateful. They accused him of disrespecting the United States.
“We had a very meaningful meeting,” Trump said in a statement. “Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure.”
Trump continued, “It’s amazing what comes out through emotion. I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved. He feels our involvement gives him a big advantage. I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE.”
The tension escalated when Vance confronted Zelensky. “Do you think it’s respectful to attack the administration trying to prevent your country’s destruction?” he asked. Vance pointed out that Ukraine was forcing conscripts to the front lines due to manpower shortages.
Zelensky defended his actions. “During war, everybody has problems, even you,” he said. “You have a nice ocean and don’t feel it now, but you will in the future.”
Trump cut him off. “Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel. You’re in no position to dictate that,” he shot back. “You’ve allowed yourself to be in a very bad position.”
Trump warned that Ukraine was gambling with millions of lives. “You don’t have the cards right now,” he said. “With us, you start having cards. But what you’re doing is very disrespectful.”
Vance jumped in, demanding to know if Zelensky had even said “thank you.” “You went to Pennsylvania and campaigned for the opposition,” he said. “Offer some words of appreciation to the United States and the president trying to save your country.”