Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has addressed his recent confrontation with U.S. President Donald Trump, reaffirming Ukraine’s readiness for peace while accusing Russia of repeatedly violating ceasefire agreements.
During a tense exchange at the White House, Trump criticized Zelenskyy for not making peace with Russia, reportedly telling him, “You’re either going to make a deal, or we’re out. And if we’re out, you’ll fight it out, and I don’t think it’s going to be pretty.” The heated discussion, which took place in front of international media, ended with Zelenskyy leaving the meeting abruptly.
In a statement following the encounter, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for U.S. support but emphasized that true peace requires more than just a ceasefire.
“We are very grateful to the United States for all the support. I’m thankful to President Trump, Congress, and the American people. America’s help has been vital in helping us survive. Despite the tough dialogue, we remain strategic partners,” he said.
He reiterated Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate, but with strong security guarantees. “It’s crucial for us to have President Trump’s support. He wants to end the war, but no one wants peace more than we do. A ceasefire without security guarantees is dangerous for Ukraine. Putin has broken ceasefires 25 times over the last decade.”
Quoting former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, Zelenskyy insisted that peace must be “more than just the absence of war” and should be built on justice, freedom, and human rights.
Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine is prepared to sign a minerals agreement with the U.S., but stressed that economic deals alone are insufficient.
“We are ready to sign the minerals agreement, and it will be the first step toward security guarantees. But we need more than just that. The Ukrainian people need to know that America is on our side,” he stated.
He further accused Russia of committing atrocities and attempting to erase Ukraine’s sovereignty. “Russia is the enemy, and that’s the reality we face. Ukraine wants peace, but it must be a just and lasting peace. We need to be strong at the negotiation table, with security guarantees in place.”
Acknowledging that NATO membership may not be immediately possible, Zelenskyy urged allies, including the U.S., to provide alternative security arrangements.
“If NATO membership is not possible, we need a clear structure of security guarantees. Europe is ready to support us, but we also need the U.S. to define what kind of guarantees will be provided, in what volume, and when,” he explained.
He warned that without strong international backing, Ukraine risks further Russian aggression. “We cannot stop fighting without guarantees that Putin won’t return tomorrow.”
Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of U.S. support in defending Ukraine’s sovereignty, describing Russia’s invasion as a direct violation of international law.
“Russia invaded our homes, killed our people, and tried to erase our identity. This is not just about territories—it’s about real lives. The world must understand that.”
Following the White House confrontation, European leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine, pledging continued military and financial aid.
Despite Trump’s insistence on a negotiated peace, Zelenskyy made it clear that Ukraine would not accept a ceasefire without solid security guarantees.
“Our relationship with the American President is more than just two leaders—it is a historic and solid bond between our peoples. That’s why I always begin with words of gratitude from our nation to the American nation,” he concluded.
The diplomatic standoff highlights the challenges in U.S.-Ukraine relations as the war with Russia continues. With uncertainty over future U.S. support, Ukraine remains firm in its demand for lasting peace, built on justice and security.
