Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Urges US to Stand Firmly Against Russia.
In a bold move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on the US to “stand more firmly on our side” following a heated exchange with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Friday. The tense meeting, which was intended to precede the signing of a deal granting the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, ended abruptly with Zelensky being told to leave early.
Zelensky’s plea for stronger US support came as he arrived in the UK to participate in a European leaders’ summit. Despite the “tough dialogue” with Trump, Zelensky emphasized the importance of continued US backing for Ukraine. He expressed gratitude to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for a “meaningful and warm meeting” and announced a £2.26bn ($2.8bn) loan to Kyiv.
In a series of 14 posts on X, Zelensky reiterated his calls for US security guarantees to be part of any “just and lasting” peace deal to end the war with Russia. He acknowledged Trump’s desire to end the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, but stressed that Ukraine wants peace more than anyone.
The White House meeting was marked by a war of words, with Trump telling Zelensky to make a deal with Russia “or we are out” and US Vice-President JD Vance accusing him of being ungrateful. The exchange has sparked widespread criticism, with many European leaders and global figures voicing support for Zelensky.
As the situation continues to unfold, Zelensky remains committed to pushing for a balance to be restored, ensuring a democratic and stable Ukraine. The international community watches closely, awaiting the next developments in this critical moment for global diplomacy.