Former U.S. President Donald J. Trump has issued a strongly worded statement following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, suggesting that the Ukrainian leader is “not ready for peace” and accusing him of disrespecting the United States during their discussions.
In a statement shared publicly, Trump described the meeting as “very meaningful,” claiming that the high-pressure discussion revealed key insights into the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to Trump, Zelenskyy believes that U.S. involvement in the conflict gives Ukraine an “advantage in negotiations”, a stance that the former president says he does not support.
Trump Calls for Peace, Rejects U.S. “Advantage” in War
“It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE,” Trump stated.
While Trump did not elaborate on specific details of the discussion, his remarks suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy regarding Ukraine, should he return to office. Trump has previously criticized U.S. financial and military aid to Kyiv, arguing that American taxpayers should not be burdened with funding foreign wars.
Zelenskyy “Disrespected” the Oval Office, Trump Claims
Trump further escalated his remarks by accusing Zelenskyy of disrespecting the United States during their meeting.
“He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”
The statement raises questions about the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations, as Zelenskyy has consistently sought continued American support in Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion.
White House and Ukrainian Government Yet to Respond
The White House has yet to issue an official response to Trump’s comments, and Ukrainian officials have not publicly addressed the alleged Oval Office incident.
The meeting comes amid ongoing debates in Washington over the extent of U.S. support for Ukraine, with some factions in Congress pushing for continued aid while others, including Trump-aligned Republicans, advocate for reducing American involvement.
Uncertain Path Forward
As the Ukraine-Russia conflict enters another year, Trump’s remarks may signal a change in diplomatic dynamics should he return to power. Whether Zelenskyy and his administration will respond publicly remains to be seen, but Trump’s statement indicates that tensions between the two leaders remain high.
More updates are expected as reactions from U.S. and Ukrainian officials emerge.
