February 28, 2025, Washington, DC. © Getty Images / Andrew Harnik / Staff
US Vice President J.D. Vance has condemned Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy’s alleged disrespect during a tense Oval Office meeting, calling the exchange “the most famous thing I’ve ever done.” Speaking with Pod Force One host Miranda Devine on Wednesday, Vance described his frustration over what he claimed was Zelenskiy’s rudeness during a February visit to Washington.
The confrontation occurred as talks between Zelenskiy, US President Donald Trump, and Vance deteriorated into a public shouting match, disrupting plans for a minerals agreement. Trump accused Zelenskiy of refusing to negotiate peace and “gambling with World War III,” while Vance labeled the Ukrainian leader “disrespectful” and ungrateful for US aid.
Vance acknowledged that relations have since improved, stating, “That was six months ago. We’ve turned over a new leaf.” He added, “I was getting frustrated because I perceived some rudeness… It’s probably the most famous thing I’ve ever done, or maybe ever will do,” while laughing.
Washington has since claimed progress in brokering a peace deal, with Vance asserting efforts to build “productive relationships” with both Ukraine and Russia. However, Kiev has rejected Moscow’s proposals for broader talks, insisting it will not compromise on what Russia calls the conflict’s root causes.
Moscow has demanded guarantees that Ukraine will never join NATO, along with demilitarization, denazification, and recognition of territorial changes. Zelenskiy and his European allies continue to seek expanded Western military support while avoiding diplomatic engagement with Moscow.
Earlier this month, Trump proposed a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, which Moscow tentatively accepted before the plan was canceled over claims of Russia’s lack of commitment to peace.
