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Trump Vs Zelensky: A high-stakes meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Friday quickly escalated into a heated confrontation, drawing global attention. What started as a formal diplomatic exchange soon turned into an intense debate over the Russia-Ukraine war, leading to the abrupt departure of the Ukrainian delegation and an untouched formal lunch, reports revealed.

This was the first official meeting between Trump and Zelensky since Trump returned to office in January 2025. Initially marked by handshakes and pleasantries, tensions rose swiftly after US Vice President JD Vance emphasised the need for diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The war, which began in 2022 following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, remains a major point of contention between global leaders.

As the discussion intensified, Trump reportedly accused Zelensky of being "not ready" for peace with Russia, resulting in an explosive Oval Office exchange. The Ukrainian delegation was subsequently asked to leave the White House, further fuelling controversy on the global stage, as per reports.

International Response: Nations Rally Behind Ukraine

The dramatic showdown between Trump and Zelensky sent shockwaves through international politics, prompting strong reactions from world leaders. While Russia mocked Zelensky, calling him a “s***bag,” several nations reaffirmed their support for Ukraine and its sovereignty.

Countries Expressing Support for Ukraine

- Austria: Chancellor Karl Nehammer praised Ukraine’s resilience, stating, "The Ukrainian people have courageously defended their country for over three years. Europe stands with Ukraine to ensure a just and lasting peace."

- Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned Russia’s invasion as “illegal and unjustifiable,” reaffirming Canada’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and democracy.

- Slovenia: President Natasa Pirc Musar criticised the Oval Office incident, stressing that it undermined diplomatic values and calling for Europe to lead peace efforts in Ukraine.

- Romania: Interim President Ilie Bolojan highlighted Ukraine’s importance to European security, urging nations to stand together for freedom and peace.

- Poland: Prime Minister Donald Tusk delivered a brief but powerful message: "You are not alone."

- European Union Leaders: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa reassured Ukraine of ongoing support, stating, "Your bravery inspires us. You are never alone."

- Germany: Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz affirmed, "Nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians." Meanwhile, his likely successor, Friedrich Merz, vowed continued solidarity with Ukraine.

- Italy: Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni proposed a multinational summit involving the US , European nations, and allies to strategise a path forward on Ukraine.

- France: President Emmanuel Macron reinforced his stance, declaring, "Russia is the aggressor, and Ukraine is under attack. Their fight is for dignity, independence, and the security of Europe."

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- Other European Nations: Leaders from Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden also expressed solidarity with Ukraine.

The Trump-Zelensky clash marks a turning point in US -Ukraine relations, raising questions about America’s future role in supporting Kyiv’s fight against Russia. While many European allies continue to stand by Ukraine, the White House confrontation underscores growing diplomatic tensions over the war’s resolution.