March 1, 2025
What Happened: Tensions rose during a 50-minute press meeting in the Oval Office on Friday between President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In the final 10 minutes, things escalated with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance standing firm on the need for diplomacy with Russia, which President Zelenskyy countered saying that Russia has not respected diplomacy with Ukraine in the past. The meeting ended soon after, with the rare earth deal signing and subsequent press conference both canceled.
What Was Said After the Meeting?
President Trump: “We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today. Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and 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. I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE. He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”
President Zelenskyy: “Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you @POTUS, Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.”
WATCH the full meeting (CSPAN)
Read More: How the Trump, Zelensky meeting went off the rails (The Hill)
by Stephanie Wagner, based in Florida
