VIDEO: Trump, Vance clash with Zelensky in heated White House meeting

In a tense Oval Office exchange, US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday, accusing him of lacking gratitude for US aid and pressuring him to accept a peace deal on American terms.

The conversation quickly turned heated once they sat down in the Oval Office with reporters present. Zelenskyy, wearing his usual dark, long-sleeved shirt, began recounting the history of the war with Russia, explaining that it started in 2014 when Moscow seized Crimea and occupied parts of eastern Ukraine.

But before he could continue, Vance abruptly interrupted and attacked him. “I think it's disrespectful for you to come to the Oval Office to try to litigate in front of the American media,” he said. “You should be thanking the president.”

He went on to accuse Zelensky of using his visit for propaganda. “Do you think it’s respectful to come to the Oval Office and attack the administration that’s trying to prevent the destruction of your country?” 

Zelenskyy attempted to respond, saying the United States might one day feel threatened by Russia. “You have a nice ocean and don’t feel now, but you will feel it in the future,” he said.

His comment provoked Trump, who immediately cut him off. “Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel,” he said, raising his voice. “You’re not in a good position, you don’t have the cards right now.” He added, “You’re gambling with World War III.”

Vance then pressed him again. “Have you said thank you once?”

“You’re either going to make a deal or we’re out,” Trump added. “And if we’re out, you’ll fight it out and I don’t think it’s going to be pretty.”

The confrontation marked a stark shift in US-Ukraine relations, with Trump favoring negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Shortly after, Trump issued a statement declaring Zelensky “not ready for peace” and abruptly ended the meeting, leaving the future of US support for Ukraine uncertain.

President Trump issued a statement after his tense meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, calling it a "very meaningful" discussion but claiming Zelensky was "not ready for peace" if the US remained involved.

"He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace," Trump added.