Summary of Full Meeting between President Trump, VP Vance and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Oval Office
The meeting between President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office focused on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, negotiations with Russia, and future cooperation between the U.S. and Ukraine.
President Trump emphasized the importance of negotiating a deal to end the war, claiming that if he had been president earlier, the conflict would not have escalated. He mentioned the high number of casualties on both sides and expressed a desire to redirect funds towards rebuilding Ukraine instead of continuing military engagement. Trump criticized the Biden Administration for not engaging with Russia and stated that his administration would work towards a fair deal benefiting both countries and the world.
President Zelenskyy expressed hope that the agreement being signed would lead to real security guarantees for Ukraine and emphasized the need for continued U.S. support. He highlighted the bravery of Ukrainian soldiers and the importance of air defense systems, as well as the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. Zelenskyy also stressed that compromises with Russia would not be acceptable regarding Ukraine's sovereignty.
The discussion also touched on the U.S. commitment to provide military aid to Ukraine and the importance of energy cooperation, particularly regarding LNG terminals. Trump mentioned that the U.S. would invest in Ukraine's raw materials, which he believes would create significant revenue for both countries.
Throughout the meeting, tensions were evident as both leaders navigated their differing perspectives on the war and the role of the U.S. in facilitating peace. Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not accept a ceasefire without security guarantees, while Trump maintained that making a deal was the priority.
Overall, the meeting reflected the complexities of international diplomacy amid an ongoing conflict, with both leaders seeking to assert their positions while aiming for a resolution.
Presenters/Contributors:
- President Donald Trump
- Vice President Vance
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Notable Quotes
— 12:45 — « I'd say George Washington, Abraham Lincoln. I would say I'm far superior to George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Now you know I'm only kidding, right? »
— 17:40 — « I hope I'm going to be remembered as a peacemaker. This would be a great thing if we could do this. »
— 40:01 — « The path to peace and the path to prosperity is maybe engaging in diplomacy. »
— 45:32 — « You got to be more thankful because let me tell you, you don't have the cards. »
Category
News and Commentary