On 28 February, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the White House for talks with US President Donald Trump and Vice President James David Vance. During the meeting, the American leaders pressed Zelensky, claiming Ukraine had “no cards left to play” and was running out of troops willing to fight. They also accused him of “ingratitude.”
“If not for American weapons, Ukraine would have lasted only two weeks,” Trump declared. Zelensky pushed back, inviting the White House leaders to visit Ukraine and witness firsthand the country’s resolve. When Trump accused him of rejecting a truce, Zelensky reminded him that he had already struck a deal with Putin—one that Russia simply ignored.
Following the meeting, Trump took to social media, claiming that “Zelensky is not ready for peace with America’s involvement because he feels the US presence gives him an advantage.” Meanwhile, the White House’s official page stated that in their conversation with Zelensky, Trump and Vance were simply “putting America first.”
Republican strategist and direct democracy advocate Dane Waters told The Ukrainian Week that Donald Trump never had any real interest in supporting Ukraine—and still does not. “Trump was never going to help Ukraine. It was a setup all along. Zelensky did the best he could.”
Waters believes Ukraine can endure the war without US backing, provided Europe remains united. “Zelensky was defending his country and simply refused to be bullied. Zelensky wants peace but not at the cost of capitulation. Trump has zero interest in defending Ukraine – never did. I am appalled by what happened; I am not surprised,” said Waters, who previously advised George H.W. Bush’s and John McCain’s campaigns.
He acknowledges that the White House dispute plays into Vladimir Putin’s hands. “Of course, Putin is pleased with this. But it’s time to move on. Ukraine must believe it can withstand this without America… and it can. The focus should be on the future and uniting with all of Europe,” he said.
