US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky clashed openly at the White House on Friday over the need for Ukraine to compromise with Russia, which Zelensky called a “killer” regime.
Trump criticized Zelensky for being ungrateful and insisted Ukraine must “make a deal” with Russia or risk losing US support.
Vice President JD Vance also accused Zelensky of being “disrespectful.”
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Trump argued that compromises are necessary for a truce with Russia, which invaded Ukraine three years ago, but Zelensky rejected the idea, stating there should be “no compromises with a killer on our territory.”
He highlighted Russian war crimes, including the deportation of Ukrainian children.
Trump accused Zelensky of gambling with millions of lives and risking World War Three, calling his behavior “disrespectful.”
The tense exchange followed an initially cordial meeting, where Zelensky expressed hope for US support, including a security “backstop” for peacekeeping efforts.
Trump’s shift in US policy, positioning himself as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine, has alarmed Kyiv and European allies.
He revealed frequent communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin and claimed a truce was “fairly close.” Trump also mentioned a deal to exploit Ukraine’s natural resources, calling it “very fair,” as part of a broader plan to aid Ukraine’s recovery.
