Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Gets Emotional During U.K. Visit After Tense White House Meeting with Trump
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was visibly emotional during his meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street on March 1, just one day after a tense exchange with former U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House.
Upon arriving at Downing Street, Zelenskyy, 47, was warmly greeted by Starmer, 62, who hugged him and assured him that he was “very, very welcome here.” Footage shared by the Associated Press and Sky News showed the two leaders sharing the embrace before Zelenskyy waved to the crowd outside, giving a thumbs-up as they made their way inside for a conversation. Despite reporters’ questions about his meeting with Trump, Zelenskyy chose not to respond.
Starmer spoke about the widespread support for Zelenskyy and Ukraine from the people of the United Kingdom, emphasizing the country’s commitment to standing by Ukraine for as long as necessary. “You have full backing across the United Kingdom,” Starmer said, acknowledging the cheering crowds. “We stand with you and Ukraine for as long as it may take, and I hope you heard some of that cheering in the street.” Zelenskyy appeared moved by the support and became teary as Starmer continued, stating that the cheers were a reflection of the nation’s unwavering determination to achieve lasting peace for Ukraine.
In response, Zelenskyy thanked the British people for their ongoing and enthusiastic support in the face of the Russia-Ukraine war. This meeting in London came the day after a difficult visit to the White House.
On February 28, Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance became increasingly tense when the discussion turned to U.S. support for Ukraine. Vance accused Zelenskyy of being “disrespectful” for raising U.S.-Ukraine policy concerns in front of journalists. Zelenskyy defended his stance, asserting that Vance had never been to Ukraine or been in combat and that he wouldn’t let others dictate the feelings of Ukrainians.
The conversation escalated further when Trump mentioned “World War III” and accused Zelenskyy of “gambling with the lives of millions of people,” criticizing his relationship with President Joe Biden. The meeting ended abruptly, with Zelenskyy canceling his planned appearances in Washington, D.C. Following the encounter, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude on social media, while Trump took to Truth Social, claiming that Zelenskyy “disrespected” America and accusing him of not being ready for peace negotiations while U.S. involvement continued.