In a meeting that has sparked widespread reactions, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faced unexpected developments during his visit to the White House. The meeting with US President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance in the Oval Office concluded without a deal, leaving Zelensky to exit without an agreement on jointly developing Ukraine's valuable minerals. The fallout from this encounter has led to a chorus of mixed responses from political figures across the United States.
Republican Representative Mike Lawler of New York expressed his disappointment over the missed opportunity. He described the meeting as a setback for both nations, emphasizing its potential implications for future collaboration.
"A missed opportunity for both the United States and Ukraine." – Rep Mike Lawler
Senator Tommy Tuberville from Alabama took to social media, lauding Trump's decision to dismiss Zelensky from the White House.
"The best thing President Trump has done so far is kick that Ukrainian weasel out of the WH." – Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville
Trump, addressing reporters, remarked that Zelensky had "overplayed his hand," while National Security Adviser Mike Waltz likened Zelensky to an "ex-girlfriend" overly concerned with past grievances rather than progressing forward.
"It's like an ex-girlfriend that wants to argue everything that you said nine years ago, rather than moving the relationship forward." – National Security Adviser Mike Waltz
The aftermath of Zelensky's visit has not been without controversy. Senator Lindsey Graham suggested Zelensky should resign, citing concerns about future US military support for Ukraine.
"What I saw in the Oval Office was disrespectful, and I don't know if we can ever do business with Zelensky again." – Senator Graham
However, not all voices were in alignment with Trump's actions. Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed her distress over the situation.
"I am sick to my stomach as the administration appears to be walking away from our allies and embracing Putin." – Senator Lisa Murkowski
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also voiced his criticism, accusing Trump and Vance of aligning with Russian interests.
"Trump and Vance are doing Putin's dirty work." – Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer
Meanwhile, Zelensky found a warmer reception across the Atlantic with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street. In a plea directed towards the US, Zelensky urged for firmer support for Kyiv amidst escalating tensions with Russia.
"Ukraine wants independence, free markets and rule of law. It wants to be part of the West. Russia hates us and our Western values. We should be clear that we stand for freedom." – Rep Don Bacon
Contributing to the complex narrative, Trump suggested Ukraine should concede territory to Russia as a potential resolution to the ongoing conflict. He has initiated peace talks between Washington and Moscow, adding another layer to the geopolitical tensions at play.
"Either we're going to end it or let him fight it out, and if he fights it out, it's not going to be pretty." – Trump
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