Ukrainian president cancels speech at Hudson Institute after tense Oval Office meeting

The Hudson Institute has confirmed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy canceled his planned speech at the think tank, following a highly charged meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House. 

Sources indicate that the meeting, which was held in the Oval Office, quickly devolved into a tense and heated exchange, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

President Trump sharply criticised President Zelenskyy following a tense and fiery confrontation in the Oval Office, accusing the Ukrainian leader of "disrespecting the United States of America."

The two leaders had been set to hold a joint press conference following the signing of a framework mineral agreement, but the scheduled event was abruptly canceled. Sources familiar with the matter say the exchange escalated quickly, with Trump and Zelenskyy engaging in a shouting match, and Vice President Vance questioning whether Zelenskyy had sufficiently acknowledged US support for Ukraine.

“We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelenskyy [sic] is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE. He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”

The disagreement has sparked concern among policymakers, with many wondering what impact the altercation will have on the US-Ukraine relations going forward. The incident has overshadowed what was initially meant to be a diplomatic event centred around a significant deal for both nations. 

The framework mineral agreement, which aimed to strengthen the US-Ukraine ties in the energy sector, was seen as a major step forward. However, the abrupt cancellation of the press conference has raised questions about the future of such agreements and the overall tone of the US-Ukraine relations.

By Naila Huseynova