Volodymyr Zelensky has declined to apologize for his confrontation with US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance in the Oval Office, asserting that the relationship can still be mended.
Following a meeting that fell apart due to Vance's accusation of ' disrespect' towards the US, Trump echoed this sentiment, warning that Ukraine was risking a potential World War Three.
In a subsequent interview with Fox News, Zelensky remarked that he did not believe any wrongdoing had occurred and suggested that some discussions should remain private.
The meeting was intended to finalize a crucial minerals agreement, but tensions escalated when Zelensky emphasized the need for " US security guarantees" in a future peace deal with Russia, resulting in the deal remaining unsigned.
A senior White House official indicated that Trump is not interested in reviving the minerals agreement. In the wake of the incident, European leaders have expressed their support for Zelensky, with Sir Keir Starmer affirming his commitment to Ukraine after conversations with both Zelensky and Trump.
Sir Bill Browder, a former major foreign investor in Russia, alleged that Trump intentionally sabotaged the meeting to maintain his image after realizing that Putin was not genuinely pursuing a peace agreement, suggesting that the responsibility now lies with the UK and EU to support Ukraine as the US may withdraw its backing.
Putin has indicated a willingness to engage in peace negotiations; however, his continued insistence on unrealistic demands jeopardizes the possibility of a viable agreement. These demands include the absence of security guarantees for Ukraine and the requirement for Kyiv to relinquish territories that Russia does not currently control.
In the wake of a tense dialogue, Mr. Zelensky called on the international community to remain attentive to Ukraine's plight. He shared a video on "Telegram" showcasing a meeting in Washington with Ukrainian citizens, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that Ukraine's voice is heard and remembered, both during the ongoing conflict and in the future.
He stressed that it is crucial for the people of Ukraine to feel supported and to know that their interests are acknowledged globally.