The latest on Trump’s presidency after hostile meeting with Zelensky
The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said on Friday that the “free world needs a new leader” after a heated argument between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Kallas emphasized Europe’s support for Ukraine, stating on social media that “Ukraine is Europe!” and promising increased assistance to help Ukraine fight against Russian aggression. She also called on European nations to step up as leaders in supporting Ukraine.
In a joint statement, EU leaders—including Ursula von der Leyen, António Costa, and Roberta Metsola—encouraged Zelensky to “stay strong.” They praised his leadership, assuring him that Ukraine is not alone and that they would continue working toward a fair and lasting peace.
Shock and Reactions from Diplomats
A European diplomat, speaking anonymously to CNN, expressed shock at how aggressively Zelensky was treated during his meeting with Trump. The diplomat noted that they had never seen a leader of an invaded country face such strong accusations from another world leader. They hoped Trump would reconsider his approach to Ukraine.
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reached out to both Trump and Zelensky following their argument. A spokesperson for Starmer said the UK remains fully committed to supporting Ukraine and is working toward a lasting peace based on Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
Starmer is also preparing to host a summit with European leaders, including Zelensky, to discuss further support for Ukraine.
The Heated Argument
The argument between Trump and Zelensky took place in the Oval Office and highlighted uncertainty about U.S. aid to Ukraine. Trump and his Vice President, J.D. Vance, criticized Zelensky for not being grateful enough for U.S. support.
During the exchange, Trump told Zelensky, “You’re not really in a very good position. You’ve allowed yourself to be in a very bad position. You don’t have the cards right now. With us, you start having cards.”
Zelensky responded, “I’m not playing cards.”
As the conversation escalated, Trump accused Zelensky of “gambling with the lives of millions of people” and risking a global conflict. Vance also accused Zelensky of being “disrespectful,” with Trump adding, “Have you said ‘thank you’ once?”
Fallout from the Meeting
After the argument, the two leaders separated into different rooms. Trump then ordered the Ukrainian delegation to leave. Ukrainian officials wanted to continue discussions, but they were told no. A planned joint press conference was canceled, and Zelensky left without signing an agreement that would have given the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals.
Following the meeting, Trump posted online that Zelensky was not welcome back until he was “ready for peace.” Zelensky, however, posted a message thanking the U.S., its government, and its people for their support.
Ukraine’s Defense Ministry also reacted, stating, “We have our own things to do. Glory to Ukraine.”
Russia’s Response
Russia quickly seized on the argument. Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev called the event “historic.” Russian state media painted Zelensky in a negative light, with headlines suggesting that he was “rude,” “hysterical,” and causing chaos in the White House.
Continued Russian Attacks
While global attention focused on the argument, Russia continued its attacks on Ukraine. Overnight, Russian forces launched at least 154 drones at Ukraine. In one attack on the Odesa region, one person was killed, and three others were injured. A house, trucks, and cars were set on fire.
Conclusion
The Oval Office argument between Trump and Zelensky has intensified concerns over future U.S. support for Ukraine. European leaders are stepping up their efforts to back Ukraine, while Russia is taking advantage of the situation. The situation remains tense as the war continues, and Ukraine fights to maintain its independence.
