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Trump cancels press conference with Zelensky after tense Oval Office meeting

“He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office,” Mr Trump said in a statement on Truth Social.

• February 28, 2025
Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy [Credit: OPB]

The White House has canceled the press conference between President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy after the earlier televised meeting between the two leaders ended in a shouting match on Friday.

Mr Zelenskyy is currently on a working visit to the United States to meet with Mr Trump amid his efforts to negotiate a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia in the ongoing war in the region as well as to discuss the current administration’s position on further military aid to Ukraine.

However, the meeting at the Oval Office on Friday morning ended in chaos as Mr Trump, Mr Zelenskyy and Vice President JD Vance traded loud words among themselves live on television over opposing political and policy stances on the current situation in Ukraine.

Apparently displeased with the outcome of the meeting, Mr Trump canceled the joint press conference with Zelenskyy slated for Friday evening, stating that the Ukrainian leader disrespected the United States’ seat of power. 

“He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office,” Mr Trump said in a statement on Truth Social. “He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”

Mr Trump admitted that the meeting was full of emotions but he has concluded that his Ukrainian counterpart is not ready for peace talks if the United States is involved.

“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 America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations.”

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