Zelensky Describes White House Encounter with Trump as 'Regrettable'

In a stark reflection on the recent clash during his meeting with former President Trump, President Zelensky highlights Ukraine's commitment to peace while expressing regret about the diplomatic fallout.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has branded his tumultuous meeting with former President Donald Trump in the Oval Office as "regrettable." This acknowledgment comes on the heels of the United States announcing a suspension in military aid to Ukraine, triggering concerns over the ongoing conflict.

In a candid social media post, Zelensky lamented that the meeting in Washington did not unfold as intended. He emphasized that "nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians" after Trump criticized him for seemingly resisting negotiation efforts. Reports Monday revealed a halt in US military assistance, further complicating Ukraine's position following a breakdown in diplomatic relations last week.

Zelensky remarked in his lengthy post that he and his team remain prepared to collaborate under Trump's leadership to achieve a lasting peace, expressing appreciation for the mechanisms the US has put in place to support Ukraine’s autonomy. He even acknowledged the pivotal moment when the US supplied Ukraine with the Javelin anti-tank missile system during Trump's tenure, underscoring the importance of American support.

During the meeting, Trump and Vice President JD Vance confronted Zelensky, accusing him of ingratitude towards US aid. "It is time to make things right," Zelensky conveyed, seeking a shift towards constructive dialogue. The meeting was originally expected to culminate in a significant agreement that would allow US access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals, a vital resource, but tensions led to the Ukrainian delegation leaving without the deal finalized. Trump remarked that Zelensky could return when he was prepared for peace.

Despite the friction, Zelensky expressed his eagerness to advance discussions on the minerals deal and reiterated that Ukraine is poised to finalize the agreement promptly, viewing it as a crucial step toward enhanced security and guarantees.

While Trump has yet to address the pause in military assistance or respond to Zelensky's remarks, he did criticize the Ukrainian leader after Zelensky's recent meetings with European allies. A summit arranged by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer aimed at showcasing solidarity with Ukraine was marred by Trump's critique of Zelensky's assertion that peace was "still very, very far away.” He condemned this statement as counterproductive.

In his latest address, Zelensky made reference to a French proposal for a potential month-long truce amid ongoing hostilities, presenting a framework that could include prisoner exchanges and bans on missile attacks. "We want to move quickly through all next stages," he affirmed, aspiring to build a stronger partnership with the United States to finalize an effective agreement.