WASHINGTON, March 6. /TASS/. The verbal exchange between US President Donald Trump and Vladimir Zelensky exposed Washington’s frustration over the contacts with Kiev, including those held behind closed doors, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters.
"As I've said repeatedly, Friday (the meeting between Trump and Zelensky in Washington on February 28 - TASS) revealed the frustrations that this administration has had in closed door negotiations with the Ukrainians," she said.
"However, President Zelensky did put out a statement yesterday (on March 4 - TASS), which we believe is a positive step forward, and Secretary, National Security Advisor Mike waltz has been talking to his Ukrainian counterparts. And so we're in the midst of this, and we'll see what happens next," she added.
On February 28, Zelensky arrived at the White House for a meeting with Trump. During their conversation, which took place in the presence of journalists, a heated exchange erupted. Trump criticized Zelensky for his perceived disrespect toward the United States, while Vice President JD Vance pointed out that Zelensky had neglected to thank Washington for its support of Kiev. Consequently, the press conference following their meeting was canceled, and the signing of a mineral agreement between Ukraine and the United States did not occur. Trump posted a statement on the Truth Social media platform saying that Zelensky was disrespectful and not ready for peace.
On March 3, Trump wrote on Truth Social that Zelensky’s remark about the conflict being far from over was "the worst statement that could have been made." He added that "America will not put up with it for much longer." Later that day, Trump said, apparently referring to Zelensky, that if someone doesn’t want peace in Ukraine, that person "will not stay here for long." He also expressed confidence in Russia's desire to resolve the conflict. The White House then announced that Washington had suspended military aid to Kiev.