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President Zelenskyy and Trump’s Heated White House Clash—What Happens Next?
On February 28, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sat down for an interview with Fox News as discussions continued over the future of U.S. assistance to Ukraine, following his abruptly interrupted meeting with Donald Trump at The White House.
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Amid uncertainty about ongoing American support, he reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to diplomacy, emphasizing that lasting peace depends on securing long-term guarantees.
On making peace with Russia
When asked about Trump’s stance on Ukraine, Zelenskyy expressed his hope that the U.S. would continue to take a firm position against Russian aggression. He pointed out that Ukraine is defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity:
“They’re [Russians] not right. They didn’t respect our territorial integrity. They brought the war on our territory to our families, sorry for repeating, to our houses. And they’re not right. And of course, all the Ukrainians want to hear a strong position of the United States on our side.”
He acknowledged that Trump seeks dialogue with Russia, but emphasized that a strong and united approach has historically been the most effective way to deter aggression:
“He’s strong, United States strong, two parties together. In this question, two parties are always together against Russia. You’re very strong to do strong steps against Putin.”
On mending relations with Trump
Despite tensions during the White House meeting, Zelenskyy remains confident in the strength of U.S.-Ukraine relations, which he believes go beyond presidential administrations:
“Yes, of course, because it’s relations more than two presidents. It’s the historical relations, strong relations between our people.”
He repeatedly expressed gratitude to the American people for their unwavering support:
“That’s why I always begin with thanking your people from our people. And this is the most important. Your people helped to save our people. People first. Human rights first. This is very, very important. And we are thankful.”
On stepping down
Baier asked whether Zelenskyy would consider stepping down as part of a peace deal. The Ukrainian leader dismissed the idea, stating that such a decision could only be made by the Ukrainian people:
“This decision can only be made by the people of Ukraine. You’re not going to step down to do a peace deal? No, I was always ready. I’m not sure that is a good idea for such proposals.”
He reiterated that while diplomacy remains the ultimate goal, it cannot come at the cost of Ukraine’s security:
“Americans vote for an American president. Each European country votes for their president. And only Ukrainians vote for their president.”
On security guarantees
Looking ahead, Zelenskyy stressed the importance of security guarantees before any negotiations with Russia. He believes Europe is ready to help finance Ukraine’s defense, and now, the focus should be on defining the U.S. role in Ukraine’s security strategy:
“Europe is ready to continue and to help us with financing a big army, as big as we have now. Our army is a part of security guarantees.”
He called on the United States to clarify its position on what kind of security guarantees it is willing to provide and in what capacity:
“We want to find the place for our biggest strategic partner, the United States. Or the United States will propose where and how it will give us security guarantees—what kind and what volume of security guarantees.”
Zelenskyy sees this as the only real path toward diplomacy, arguing that weapons alone will not be enough to force Russia out:
“With weapons, it’s too long, it’s not enough. We don’t have enough weapons to push them out, and for now, we don’t see a really big volume of new support from the United States. But with all respect, again, we need to be ready with security guarantees. When I say NATO, it’s not just about the war—it’s about a very clear security infrastructure.”
He pointed out that no NATO country has been attacked, reinforcing the idea that NATO-style security commitments could prevent further escalation in the region.
Earlier, it was reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Washington, D.C., where he was greeted by former U.S. President Donald Trump. They were set to sign a landmark mineral resources agreement to strengthen U.S.-Ukraine ties, but events took an unexpected turn.
