The Kremlin has weighed in after a heated exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in which Trump accused Zelenskyy of “gambling with World War 3.”
During their Oval Office meeting on February 28, tensions flared as Trump confronted Zelenskyy over the ongoing war in Ukraine, suggesting he was ungrateful for years of U.S. support.
“You’re not in a very good position,” Trump told Zelenskyy. “With us, you start having cards … You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people! You’re gambling with World War Three!”
U.S. Vice President JD Vance echoed Trump’s frustration, accusing Zelenskyy of disrespecting both the U.S. and the president. The Ukrainian leader was reportedly asked to leave the White House early, before a scheduled news conference.
Following the clash, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed the dispute underscored Ukraine’s reluctance to negotiate peace.
“What happened at the White House demonstrated how difficult it will be to reach a settlement,” Peskov said, as reported by the New York Post. “The Kyiv regime and Zelenskyy do not want peace. They want the war to continue.” He added, “Someone has to make Zelenskyy want peace. If the Europeans can do it, they should be honored and praised.”
Meanwhile, European allies reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine at a summit in the UK on Sunday. Leaders from 18 countries pledged continued military and economic support to counter Russian aggression.
Addressing the summit, Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s cooperation with European partners and its intent to secure a U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal. However, he stood firm against any concessions of Ukrainian territory to Russia.
Following the tense White House exchange, Zelenskyy declined to apologize to Trump, stating that the confrontation “did not bring anything positive” toward achieving peace.
