Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed confidence in salvaging his country’s relationship with the United States following a tense meeting with US President Donald Trump at the Oval Office.
He stated that he remained open to further dialogue with Washington and was prepared to meet Trump again “to solve real problems.”
Addressing reporters at London Airport after a summit with European leaders on
Sunday, Zelensky asserted that the relationship between Kyiv and Washington remained intact.
“As regards salvaging the relationship, I think our relationship will continue,” he remarked.
Zelensky also reaffirmed his willingness to travel to the US should Trump extend an invitation for a constructive dialogue.
“To solve real problems, for serious issues and real, decisive actions and answers – I will arrive,” he asserted.
The Ukrainian leader’s remarks come in the wake of a highly publicised confrontation with Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House.
The live-streamed exchange saw Trump accuse Zelensky of being ungrateful for US assistance, showing disrespect, and pushing the world towards a larger conflict.
The incident has raised concerns over the future of American support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.
Despite the acrimony, Zelensky remains confident that US assistance will not cease.
“The US are leaders of the civilized world, and they will not help Putin,” he stated, adding that communication between the two countries had continued in the days following the meeting.
However, Zelensky criticised the way the White House meeting unfolded.
“I do not think it’s right when such discussions are totally open. The format of what happened, I don’t think it brought something positive or additional to us as partners,” he told Reuters.
Trump’s administration has been under increasing pressure from allies and political factions regarding the level of support extended to Ukraine.
While some within his circle have advocated a reassessment of aid, others have warned against abandoning Kyiv at a critical juncture in the conflict.
Meanwhile, Zelensky dismissed speculation about his potential resignation amid heightened political tensions.
“As regards resignation, if I’m to be changed… to change me it will not be easy because it is not enough to simply hold elections. You would need to prevent me from participating in the elections and it will be a bit more difficult,” he remarked.
The tense encounter at the White House has further complicated an already strained relationship between the two leaders.
Yet, Zelensky remains adamant that diplomatic channels must remain open to ensure Ukraine continues to receive essential support in its battle against Russian aggression.
