During a tense back-and-forth between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and President Donald Trump in the Oval Office at the White House on Friday, Ukrainian ambassador to the US Oksana Markarova appeared visibly distraught, resting her head in her palm.
During a live White House press event, Donald Trump questioned Volodymyr Zelensky about his reluctance to negotiate a ceasefire with Russia. The exchange, which was captured in photographs and videos, rapidly gained widespread attention.
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Oksana Markarova closed her eyes and lowered her head to her right hand as the microphones hovered over the impassioned discussion, as if she were attempting to block out the tension unfolding around her.
Watch the video here
Ukraine’s ambassador to the US Oksana Markarova’s reaction to the clash between Trump and Zelensky. pic.twitter.com/jva0QWJnHB
— KyivPost (@KyivPost) February 28, 2025
The clash, which was broadcasted live to television audiences worldwide, is a significant setback for Zelensky, who had anticipated that the in-person meeting with Trump would facilitate the improvement of his relationship with the American president and motivate him to provide more robust support for his country in the wake of his decision to align with Moscow.
Rather, the exchange’s vicious tone is likely to exacerbate skepticism regarding Ukraine’s capacity to resist Russia’s three-year invasion, as the country continues to struggle with a lack of personnel on the battlefield and continues to rely heavily on US military assistance. It is also probable that European allies, who have already been attempting to fill the void left by Washington, will be alarmed.
Zelensky’s assertion that the proposed agreement would not be sufficient to prevent additional Russian aggression incited fury in both Trump and US Vice President JD Vance.
“Putin will never cease and will continue to go further and further,” Zelensky stated, adding that the Russian leader “hates Ukrainians” and wished to demolish the country. “We are capable of accomplishing it; however, it is inadequate,” he concluded regarding the agreement.
As Zelensky endeavored to articulate his argument, Trump and Vance fired back at the beleaguered leader, alleging that his approach, which was delivered in the Oval Office, was “disrespectful” and impeded the conclusion of the bloody three-year conflict.
Trump informed Zelensky that he was uncertain about the Ukrainian leader’s ability to negotiate an agreement, stating, “It will be extremely difficult to conduct business in this manner.” “You must demonstrate a greater sense of gratitude, as you are not in a position to do so.” With us, you possess the cards; however, without us, you possess none.
“You are risking the possibility of World War III,” Trump continued. “And what you are doing is extremely disrespectful to the country — this country — that has supported you far more than many people have suggested they should,” he stated. “Either you are going to negotiate a deal or we are out. If we are out, you will fight it out.” I am of the opinion that it will not be visually appealing.
The meeting was intended to serve as a moment of unity among the leaders, who were scheduled to sign the natural resources agreement. This agreement was intended to address Trump’s apprehensions regarding the repayment of US aid. Trump had initially welcomed Zelensky to the White House for a high-stakes meeting with stark implications for the fight to repel Russia’s invasion, touting the agreement as a significant commitment from the US to Ukraine.
(With the assistance of Bloomberg)
