Following a tense and dramatic meeting in the White House, US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took to social media to express their contrasting takeaways from the conversation. The meeting which was expected to strengthen US-Ukraine ties and finalise the minerals deals, turned into a heated argument. After the meeting, Trump abruptly cancelled the agreement and publicly questioned Zelensky’s commitment to peace.
“We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today. Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if… pic.twitter.com/CtnqXBNcW3
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) February 28, 2025
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) Trump says Zelensky is not ready for peace
Hours after the heated exchange between the two leaders, Trump posted a long statement on his social media platform X, expressing his disappointment in Zelensky’s viewpoint on war with Russia. Trump claimed that the high-pressure discussion disclosed crucial truths, stating, ‘’It’s amazing what comes out through emotion,’’ before summing up that Zelensky was ‘’not ready for peace if America is involved because he thinks our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations.’’
Trump’s statement hinted at a shift in his stance, making it clear that he viewed Zelensky’s opposition to negotiations with Russia as a barrier to ending the war.
In contrast, Zelensky avoided direct engagement in his response, instead using social media posts to share his gratitude for the support from the US. His message reinforced Ukraine’s desire for a ‘’just and lasting peace’’ rather than immediate concessions to Russia.
He wrote, ‘’Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for his visit. Thank you@POTUS, Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs long and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.’’
Zelensky words showed a diplomatic approach, likely with an aim to reassure American and European allies that Ukraine continues to be grateful for their support, despite the fallout with Trump.
Political reactions to Trump-Zelensky clash
Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer criticised Trump and Vance on his social media post, stating that they are ‘’carrying out Putin’s dirty work.’’ He restated the commitment of Senate Democrats, stating, ‘’We will always stand up for freedom and democracy.’’
Senator Amy Klobuchar also posted, that ‘’Zelensky has thanked our country over and over again. And our country thanks HIM and the Ukrainian patriots who have stood up to a dictator.’’
The fallout from this meeting has left the future of US aid to Ukraine uncertain as the minerals deals have also been put on hold.