Ukrainians are standing firmly behind President Volodymyr Zelensky after his contentious meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
What was meant to be a diplomatic visit to discuss a minerals agreement turned into a tense exchange, with Trump and Vance accusing Zelensky of disrespect and blaming Ukraine for escalating the war with Russia.
For many in Kyiv, the incident reinforced a familiar pattern: when Ukraine faces external pressure, national unity strengthens. Polls reflect this trend—Zelensky’s approval rating, which dipped in recent years, surged after Trump’s criticism.
“The meeting was emotional, but I understand our president,” said Yulia, a Kyiv resident. “It wasn’t diplomatic, but it was sincere. We want to live.”
Others saw the confrontation as a sign that Washington’s stance on Ukraine is shifting. “It looks like Washington supports Russia!” remarked 26-year-old Dmytro, while opposition MP Inna Sovsun called the exchange “painful” and “difficult to watch.”
Trump’s transactional approach has alarmed Ukrainian leaders, with some arguing that Kyiv should look beyond the U.S. for security guarantees. Sovsun suggested stronger alliances with Europe, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Others, like Ivanna Klympush-Tsyntsadze, warned against rushed settlements, recalling failed ceasefires in 2014 and 2015 that allowed Russia to regroup.
Despite deepening tensions with the U.S., Ukraine’s leadership remains committed to negotiations but is seeking a mediator who can bridge the divide. “Someone Trump can recognize, but someone we trust too,” Sovsun suggested, naming Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a potential candidate.
As the war continues, Ukrainians remain determined not to let diplomatic setbacks dictate their future. “We knew it would be difficult,” Sovsun said. “Just not this difficult.”