President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a heated discussion at the White House on February 28 regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Trump warned Zelenskyy, “You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people! You’re gambling with World War III!”

During the Oval Office meeting, Trump criticized Zelenskyy’s position, saying, “You don’t have the cards right now… With us, you start having cards.” The conversation escalated as Trump insisted Ukraine should negotiate for peace or risk losing U.S. support: “You either make a deal or we are out.”

Vice President JD Vance intervened, asking Zelenskyy if he had thanked the U.S. for its support. “Have you said thank you?” Vance questioned, referring to Zelenskyy’s previous campaign appearance for the opposition party.

Following the meeting, Trump posted on Truth Social, accusing Zelenskyy of disrespecting the U.S.: “He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”

Trump’s assistant, Margo Martin, reaffirmed that the administration stands for “America and those who respect our position in the world.”