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WASHINGTON (AP) — In a matter of just 90 seconds, a lengthy and troubled diplomatic effort unraveled dramatically before the world’s eyes.
During a tense meeting in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump expressed his frustration towards Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, highlighting the challenges faced by Western allies in influencing Trump’s approach to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, even as the war continues to unfold unfavorably for Kyiv.
This confrontation demonstrated Trump’s increasing willingness to steer U.S. foreign policy towards his “America First” doctrine, signaling a potential departure from previous commitments and alignments that defined the U.S. stance during his earlier presidency.
The meeting marked a significant diplomatic breakdown, characterized by an exchange of accusations and emotions seldom seen between global leaders in such a formal setting. What began as a discussion escalated into a public display of discord, jeopardizing U.S.-Ukraine relations and the capability of Ukraine to maintain its resistance against Russia.
Trump pressed Zelenskyy, stating, “You either make a deal or we are out,” emphasizing his intention to control the negotiations surrounding the conflict or risk leaving Ukraine to fend for itself.
This unexpected altercation concluded a week where U.S. allies had futilely attempted to bridge the growing gap between Washington and Kyiv, struggling to dissuade Trump from his perceived affinity towards Moscow.
Earlier in the week, French President Emmanuel Macron engaged Trump in discussions aimed at establishing a European-led peacekeeping initiative in Ukraine, intended to prevent future aggressions from Russia and to sway Trump towards a more cautious view of Putin.
Despite cordial interactions, the U.S. displayed inconsistencies in its diplomatic stance, particularly at the United Nations, where it refrained from condemning Russia during resolutions that commemorated the three-year mark of the war.
Similarly, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Washington with the hope of assuring U.S. backing for European nations supporting Ukraine, an appeal that included compliments and an invitation for Trump to visit King Charles III.
Though Trump initially appeared to adopt a more favorable position regarding Ukraine’s plight, he soon contradicted himself by downplaying Russia’s past breaches of trust and suggesting plans were underway for discussions between U.S. officials and Russian leadership.
In the backdrop, Trump was reportedly focused on acquiring economic interests in Ukrainian resources, seeking a financial return on the substantial military aid the U.S. has previously extended to Kyiv. Zelenskyy, however, was looking for clearer security commitments beyond vague assurances from Washington.
As discussions progressed, an initial warm atmosphere shifted dramatically when Zelenskyy expressed skepticism about trusting Putin, prompting sharp rebukes from Vice President JD Vance and Trump. Tensions escalated as they characterized Zelenskyy’s concerns as ungratefulness toward U.S. support.
Senator Lindsey Graham advised Zelenskyy prior to the encounter, urging him against providing Trump with reasons to react negatively. Yet, Vance insisted that a diplomatic approach was the only way to resolve the ongoing crisis.
Zelenskyy’s pleas for a diplomatic resolution were dismissed by Vance, leading to a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play. Trump further escalated his rhetoric by suggesting that Zelenskyy’s sentiments towards Putin were a significant barrier to achieving peace.
The interaction was emblematic of Trump’s broader strategy to redefine U.S. policies, raising concerns about how enduring alliances could be affected going forward.
Following the intense exchange, Zelenskyy’s planned engagements were abruptly canceled, including a scheduled lunch and a joint press conference, as senior advisers conveyed to him that he was no longer welcome at the White House.
Trump made it clear he did not want to bolster Zelenskyy’s position unless he expressed a genuine intent for peace with Russia, indicating a fundamental shift in how U.S. support might manifest.
In a subsequent television appearance, Zelenskyy reflected on the encounter, acknowledging its adverse impact on both nations and reiterating Ukraine’s firm stance that discussions with Russia could only commence with adequate security guarantees.
He emphasized the precarious situation in Ukraine, where fears abound that Russian aggression could reignite at any moment. “We want just and lasting peace,” Zelenskyy asserted, illustrating the critical need for unwavering American support.
Zelenskyy concluded his remarks by expressing regret over the strained dialogue with Trump, highlighting the challenging landscape of U.S.-Ukraine relations under a new, unpredictable administration.
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