Trump-Zelensky Oval Office Clash Casts Uncertainty Over U.S.-Ukraine Relations

A heated meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky jeopardized a minerals deal and paused U.S. military aid to Ukraine, raising tensions between the two nations.

President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky engaged in a contentious Oval Office meeting, with Trump accusing Zelensky of risking 'World War III.'
The meeting derailed plans to finalize a U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal, which would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's rare mineral resources in exchange for shared revenues and reconstruction funding.
Following the confrontation, the Trump administration paused all U.S. military aid to Ukraine, demanding private engagement on peace negotiations with Russia.
Zelensky expressed regret over the meeting and reaffirmed Ukraine's readiness to sign the minerals deal and work toward peace negotiations.
Vice President JD Vance emphasized that U.S. support hinges on Ukraine's willingness to engage privately in meaningful discussions about ending the war with Russia.