Washington: In a recent interview with Fox News, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the heated exchange that took place during his visit to the White House. He asserted that he had done nothing wrong and felt no need to apologize, emphasizing that future peace negotiations will hinge on the U.S.’s stance regarding his call for a “just and lasting peace” to deter further Russian aggression.
Zelensky acknowledged that the confrontation was “not good,” yet he defended it as an “open” and “honest” dialogue between friends. The Oval Office meeting, intended for a photo opportunity and to discuss an agreement concerning U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals and resources, escalated into a shouting match. President Trump and Vice-President J.D. Vance accused Zelensky of disrespecting the U.S., while Zelensky countered that they were not fully grasping the frustration of Ukraine under invasion.
Despite some Republican lawmakers, including Lindsey Graham, criticizing him for showing disrespect instead of gratitude for U.S. support, Zelensky maintained that he could not alter Ukraine’s stance toward Russia. When asked if the public argument was beneficial for his cause, he admitted it was “not good for both sides,” but reiterated his position.