A highly anticipated meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy erupted into a tense confrontation in the Oval Office on Friday, with Trump accusing Zelenskyy of being "disrespectful" and "gambling with World War III." The exchange marked one of the most combative diplomatic encounters of Trump's presidency, as the U.S. leader pressured Zelenskyy to accept American terms for ending the Russia-Ukraine war. The meeting, intended to finalize a security and economic agreement between the two nations, quickly turned contentious. Trump and Vice President JD Vance repeatedly admonished Zelenskyy, who was advocating for stronger U.S. security guarantees to protect Ukraine from future Russian aggression. "You're gambling with the lives of millions of people," Trump told Zelenskyy, raising his voice. "You're gambling with World War III, and what you're doing is very disrespectful to this country—this country that's backed you far more than a lot of people say it should have." The confrontation escalated when Zelenskyy voiced skepticism over Russia's commitment to diplomacy, citing Moscow's repeated violations of international agreements. Trump dismissed the concerns, asserting that Russian President Vladimir Putin had never broken agreements with him. At one point, Vance interjected, criticizing Zelenskyy for airing his concerns publicly. "Mr. President, with respect, I think it's disrespectful for you to come to the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media," Vance said. The Ukrainian leader attempted to push back, but Trump continued to press him. "You're not in a good position," he told Zelenskyy. "You don't have the cards right now. With us, you start having cards." The heated exchange underscored the widening rift between the two leaders, whose relationship has grown increasingly strained. Just a week ago, Zelenskyy accused Trump of living in a "disinformation space" created by Russia, while Trump labeled the Ukrainian leader a "dictator." Despite the tensions, Zelenskyy is still expected to sign a landmark economic agreement with the U.S., which would provide financial assistance to help Ukraine rebuild after more than three years of war. The deal, which Trump called a "big commitment from the United States," is seen as a step toward ending the conflict. However, it does not include the sweeping security guarantees Ukraine had been seeking. Trump made it clear that while the U.S. would continue to provide military assistance, he was focused on winding down the war. "We're not looking forward to sending a lot of arms," he said. "We're looking forward to getting the war finished so we can do other things." As the meeting concluded, Trump chided Zelenskyy once more for his approach. "Again, just say thank you," Vance told the Ukrainian leader. Trump, nodding, added, "This is going to be great television." — Agencies
