The meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump at the White House turned into a tense encounter, resulting in Zelensky’s departure without reaching a crucial agreement. ‘
The serious discussions between the two leaders highlighted significant differences regarding the future of the conflict in Ukraine.
Trump’s Tough Exchange with Zelensky
As their meeting came to an end, Donald Trump engaged in a heated exchange with Zelensky, accusing him of relying too heavily on US support. “We’ve given you a boost to be a strong leader, but without us, I doubt you’d succeed,” Trump stated, emphasizing that Ukraine lacked enough leverage to impose its conditions in negotiations.
Addressing Zelensky directly, Trump said: “The issue is that we’ve boosted you to be a tough guy, yet without the United States, I don’t think you would be. And your people are very brave. But you’ll either make a deal or we’re stepping out, and if we step out, you’ll fight. I don’t think it will be pretty, but you will fight,” Trump warned. “You don’t have the cards,” he cautioned Zelensky further. “But once we sign that deal, you’re in a much better position,” he added.
“You’re not being grateful at all, and that’s not nice. I’ll be honest,” Trump continued before he declared the meeting concluded.
Trump: ‘Zelensky is Not Ready for Peace’
The American president took to Truth Social to emphasize that Zelensky has not shown respect towards the United States. “He is not ready for peace, for our involvement aims to give him an advantage. I seek no advantage, I seek peace. He may return when he is ready,” Trump wrote.
“We had a very significant meeting today at the White House. I’ve learned many things that could not be understood without a conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s incredible what emerges through emotion, leading me to conclude that President Zelensky is not ready for peace when the US is involved because he feels our involvement provides him a substantial advantage in negotiations. I want no advantage, I want PEACE. He showed a lack of respect for the United States in the honored Oval Office. He can return when he is ready for PEACE,” Trump mentioned on the social platform Truth.
Talks Failed, Zelensky Left Without an Agreement
Sources close to the negotiations reported that the meeting ended abruptly without Ukraine securing security guarantees or the minerals agreement Zelensky sought. “We either finalize the deal or we end the discussion,” Trump is reported to have said, indicating that Ukraine risked losing American support.
Trump: ‘I’m Not Aligned with Either Putin or Zelensky’
Trump reiterated that his goal is to protect US interests and not favor any side. “I’m not aligned with anyone. I am aligned with the United States of America and the good of the world,” the White House leader said.
Zelensky’s visit to the White House was deemed a critical moment for the future of US-Ukrainian relations. The Ukrainian president hoped to secure consolidated support, with negotiations encircling an economic partnership for Ukraine’s mineral resources. However, Trump was emphatic: “Europe should take the principal role,” emphasizing that the US would not provide direct security guarantees.
This meeting marks a turning point in American-Ukrainian relations, and the implications of Trump’s decision could significantly reshape the conflict’s course in the region.
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