Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met in Washington to discuss Ukraine’s war with Russia. The meeting quickly turned tense as Trump accused Zelenskyy of “gambling with World War 3” and disrespecting the U.S., saying, “You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people!”

Ukraine’s war with Russia began in February 2022, resulting in over 95,000 Russian and 46,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed, according to The Kyiv Independent. Trump criticized Zelenskyy’s negotiation approach, stating, “I have determined that President Zelensky is not ready for Peace if America is involved.”

Zelenskyy thanked the U.S. on social media, writing, “Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.” Trump shared his own statement, calling the meeting “very meaningful” and reaffirming his desire for peace.

During the Oscars, Conan O’Brien referenced the situation while joking about the film Anora, saying, “I think Americans are finally ready for someone to stand up to a powerful Russian.”

The heated exchange highlights the ongoing global struggle to end the war while balancing diplomatic tensions.