Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the United States to strengthen its support for Ukraine following a tense Oval Office meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. In a series of 13 posts on X (formerly Twitter), Zelensky expressed gratitude for American aid while emphasizing the need for unwavering backing in Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression.
A Plea for Stronger U.S. Commitment
“American people helped save our people,” Zelensky wrote, acknowledging U.S. contributions to Ukraine’s defense. However, he stressed that Kyiv needs firmer support, stating, “I want the U.S. to stand more firmly on our side. This is not just a war between our two countries; Russia brought this war onto our territory and into our homes. They have disrespected our territorial integrity.”
Zelensky’s appeal comes amid growing uncertainty over continued U.S. aid, especially after Trump threatened to withdraw support and exit negotiations. Acknowledging these challenges, the Ukrainian leader remained resolute: “It will be difficult without U.S. support. But we can’t lose our will, our freedom, or our people.”
Security Guarantees and the Path to Peace
Zelensky called for clear security commitments from the U.S. and its allies, stating that peace can only be achieved if Ukraine has strong military backing. “Peace can only come when we know we have security guarantees, when our army is strong, and when our partners stand with us,” he said.
He also reiterated Kyiv’s willingness to sign a minerals deal with the U.S., calling it a “first step toward security guarantees.” However, he emphasized that this alone would not be enough to safeguard Ukraine’s future.
Clash Over Ceasefire Agreements
Tensions in the Oval Office escalated when Zelensky accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of repeatedly violating ceasefire agreements. “Putin has broken his own signature 25 times,” he argued.
Trump, however, pushed back, stating that Putin had never broken agreements made directly with him. But Zelensky dismissed the notion that negotiations alone could end the war. “A ceasefire won’t work with Putin. He has broken ceasefires 25 times over the last ten years. A real peace is the only solution.”
Tense Exchange Sparks Backlash
The meeting became even more heated when Trump and Senator J.D. Vance publicly criticized Zelensky, accusing him of not being “thankful” enough for U.S. aid and pressuring him to accept a peace deal with Russia.
Zelensky, visibly frustrated, urged American leaders to reconsider their stance, warning that a rushed settlement could embolden Putin rather than stop his aggression. He highlighted Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and ongoing human rights violations, reinforcing the need for continued resistance.
The Oval Office clash has since sparked backlash in Washington and beyond, with many viewing it as a sign of growing strain in U.S.-Ukraine relations.
A Call for Honesty and Unity
Wrapping up his social media posts, Zelensky stressed the need for transparent dialogue between Kyiv and Washington. “The U.S. and Ukraine must be honest and direct with each other to achieve our goals together,” he wrote.
As the war drags on, uncertainty looms over the future of U.S. support. But for Zelensky, one thing remains clear—Ukraine needs its allies to stand firm in the fight for sovereignty, security, and lasting peace.
