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The meeting held this Friday between presidents Donald Trump and Volodomir Zelenski at the White House did not achieve an agreement to pave the way for ending the war in Ukraine.
After a heated altercation between the two leaders that included insults, shouting, and threats, Trump issued a statement claiming that Zelenski "is not ready for peace if the United States is involved."
"One learns a lot that could never be understood without a conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s surprising what emerges through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for peace if the United States is involved, because he feels that our participation gives him a significant advantage in negotiations," he wrote on his social media Truth Social.
"I don’t want advantages, I want PEACE. He disrespected the United States of America in his cherished Oval Office. He can return when he is ready for peace," he emphasized.
A little over an hour later, the Ukrainian leader shared a message of gratitude on his X account, in which he also reaffirmed his position to achieve "a fair and lasting peace" for his country.
"Thank you, United States, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you, President of the United States, to Congress and to the American people. Ukraine needs a just and lasting peace, and we are working precisely to achieve it," he expressed.
For his part, Secretary of Defense Marco Rubio reaffirmed his support for Trump in a post on X.
"Thank you, President of the United States, for defending the United States in a way that no president has had the courage to do before. Thank you for putting the United States first. The United States stands with you!" he wrote.
Frequently asked questions about the failed meeting between Trump and Zelenski
Why did the meeting between Trump and Zelensky at the White House fail?
The meeting failed due to a severe altercation between the leaders, which included insults, shouting, and threats. Trump stated that Zelensky "is not ready for peace if the United States is involved," while Zelensky reiterated his desire for a fair and lasting peace for Ukraine.
What was the main objective of the meeting between Trump and Zelenski?
The main objective of the meeting was to reach an agreement to end the war in Ukraine and discuss Washington's access to Ukraine's mineral wealth. However, tensions prevented a concrete agreement from being reached.
What stance did Trump take regarding peace in Ukraine?
Trump emphasized that he does not seek advantages, but rather peace, and accused Zelenski of disrespecting the United States by pressuring the country to undertake security commitments. Trump stated that the United States will continue to provide military assistance to Ukraine, but with caution.
How did Zelenski react after the meeting with Trump?
Zelensky thanked the United States for its support and reaffirmed his commitment to working for a just and lasting peace for Ukraine, despite the tensions during the meeting with Trump.
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