President Donald Trump’s explosive Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has triggered strong reactions from both parties and international allies, with Democrats accusing Trump of siding with Russia and Republican hawks questioning Zelensky’s leadership.
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a longtime supporter of U.S. aid to Ukraine, called the meeting an “absolute, utter disaster”, saying it destroyed any prospect of a critical minerals deal between the two nations. Graham went further, arguing that Zelensky should either apologize or step down, stating, “I don’t know if you can ever do a deal with Zelensky anymore.”
Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) echoed Graham, calling the meeting “a disaster—especially for Ukraine”, while Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) warned that Friday was a bad day for America’s foreign policy, insisting that Ukraine remains an ally while Russia is a threat.
However, Trump allies, including Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, praised Trump’s handling of the situation, saying he was working to end the war, not prolong it. Vice President J.D. Vance, who clashed directly with Zelensky, accused him of being ungrateful for U.S. assistance and claimed that Ukraine lacked leverage in peace negotiations.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) strongly condemned Trump and Vance’s treatment of Zelensky, stating, “Trump and Vance are doing Putin’s dirty work.” Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) called Trump’s behavior a “shameful display”, arguing that “Putin must be overjoyed with today’s theatrics.”
European leaders immediately voiced support for Zelensky, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assuring him, “Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people.” Germany’s Friedrich Merz and Poland’s Donald Tusk reiterated that Ukraine is not alone.
Meanwhile, Trump has canceled further peace talks, claiming that Zelensky is “not ready for peace” if America remains involved. The fallout from the meeting has raised serious doubts about future U.S. support for Ukraine.
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