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Tensions Rise Between Trump and Zelensky as Europe Rallies Behind Ukraine

A contentious Oval Office meeting leaves U.S.-Ukraine relations strained, while European leaders push for a new peace plan.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, France's President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Zelensky, Romania's Interim President Ilie Bolojan, European Council President Antonio Costa and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at a summit in central London on March 2, 2025.
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US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky meet in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, February 28, 2025.
U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meet in the Oval Office at the White House on Feb. 28, 2025 in Washington. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting with President Donald Trump ended in a public confrontation, with Trump accusing Zelensky of being ungrateful and unwilling to pursue peace.
  • European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, have announced a 'coalition of the willing' to support Ukraine and propose a peace plan without U.S. guarantees.
  • Tensions in the Oval Office arose partly over a U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal, which Zelensky declined to sign, citing the absence of security guarantees for Ukraine.
  • Vice President JD Vance and other Trump officials criticized Zelensky's approach, further straining relations and raising questions about future U.S. aid to Ukraine.
  • Zelensky received strong support from European allies following the failed meeting, but concerns remain about Europe's ability to sustain aid without U.S. involvement.