Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has officially reportedly apologized to President Donald Trump following their tense Oval Office confrontation that occurred February 28. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff announced the apology, describing it as “an important step” in the ongoing discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials.
“Zelenskyy sent a letter to the president. He apologized for that whole incident that happened in the office. I think that was an important step,” Witkoff told Fox News on Monday.
And there’s been a lot of discussion between our teams and the Ukrainians and the Europeans who are relevant to this discussion as well. And I would like to describe it as progress. And so I would hope that there’s a deal.”
The apology followed the heated exchange which outlined the shifting dynamics of U.S. policy toward Ukraine. Zelenskyy, who was in Washington to advocate for additional military and financial aid, found himself at odds with Trump and Vance, who signaled skepticism over continued support.
The apology followed the heated exchange which outlined the shifting dynamics of U.S. policy toward Ukraine. Zelenskyy, who was in Washington to advocate for additional military and financial aid, found himself at odds with Trump and Vance, who signaled skepticism over continued support.
“Mr. President, with respect, I think it’s disrespectful for you to come to the Oval Office and try to litigate this in front of the American media,” Vance told Zelenskyy. “Right now, you guys are going around and forcing conscripts to the front lines because you have manpower problems. You should be thanking the President for trying to bring an end to this conflict.”
“I have actually watched and seen the stories, and I know what happens. You bring people, you bring them on a propaganda tour, Mr. President. Do you disagree that you’ve had problems bringing people into your military?” Vance said.
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As the tension escalated, Trump stepped in, rejecting Zelenskyy’s suggestion that the U.S. would inevitably face direct consequences from the war in Ukraine.
Trump then took aim at Ukraine’s wartime strategy, arguing that the country’s leadership had mishandled the conflict. “You’re not in a good position. You’ve allowed yourself to be in a very bad position. Right now, you’re not playing cards. You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people. You’re gambling with World War III. And what you’re doing is very disrespectful to this country.”
“Have you said thank you once?” Vance asked.
“A lot of times,” Zelenskyy replied.
In the aftermath, Zelenskyy has attempted to smooth over the fallout, calling the exchange “regrettable” and reaffirming his commitment to securing peace. However, Trump has been vocal about his dissatisfaction, criticizing Zelenskyy for continuing to rely on American support while failing to show meaningful progress toward ending the war.
The president has also pointed to European nations, suggesting they should take greater responsibility rather than expecting the U.S. to foot the bill indefinitely. The political reaction in Washington has been partisan, with Republicans backing Trump’s tough stance on foreign aid and questioning whether Ukraine is making the most of American taxpayer dollars.
