On Friday (February 28), Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met with Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance in Washington DC. The meeting turned tense as Trump accused Zelenskyy of “gambling with World War 3” amid Ukraine’s ongoing war with Russia.
“You don’t have the cards right now,” Trump told Zelenskyy. “You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people! You’re gambling with World War 3!” The heated exchange contrasted with recent diplomatic visits, including the UK’s Keir Starmer and France’s Emmanuel Macron, which went more smoothly.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the meeting “unfortunate” and stressed the importance of restoring the relationship between the US and Ukraine. “I think you have to find a way, dear Volodymyr, to restore your relationship with Donald Trump and the American administration,” Rutte advised Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy received a warmer welcome in the UK, where Starmer assured him of the country’s unwavering support. “That is the people of the United Kingdom coming out to demonstrate how much they support you… to achieve what we both want to achieve, which is a lasting peace.”
Rutte expressed confidence in Trump’s commitment to NATO and peace in Ukraine, urging collaboration to secure a durable resolution.
