U.S. Senator Marco Rubio criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for a chaotic meeting with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, urging him to apologize for turning the situation into a "fiasco."
During an exclusive CNN interview with Kaitlan Collins, Rubio suggested that Zelensky’s confrontational approach may have hindered peace efforts in Ukraine’s war with Russia. Related article - King charles invites trump for unprecedented second state visit in personal letter.
Tensions Escalate Between Zelensky and U.S. Officials
Rubio described the White House meeting, which included Vice President JD Vance, as an avoidable confrontation.
He emphasized that Zelensky’s antagonistic tone was unnecessary and counterproductive. “When you start talking that aggressively – and Trump is a dealmaker – you’re not going to get people to the table,” Rubio said, questioning Zelensky's true commitment to peace.
Zelensky’s Leadership and U.S.-Ukrainian Relations in Question
Rubio’s comments highlighted growing tension between the U.S. and Ukraine. The week had already seen leaders from the UK and France visit Washington to advocate for U.S. involvement in brokering peace between Russia and Ukraine. Despite Ukraine's desire to continue talks, Trump dismissed the meeting, criticizing Zelensky for insufficient gratitude toward U.S. support.
Trump’s Stance on Zelensky’s Future
Trump, after the meeting, told Zelensky to leave the White House and expressed doubts about the Ukrainian leader’s ability to lead peace negotiations.
Rubio, however, clarified that Trump had not specifically endorsed Zelensky's resignation, referencing South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham’s controversial comments.
Confrontation Between Zelensky and Vance
A key moment in the meeting occurred when Zelensky challenged Vance’s call for diplomacy. After the Vice President suggested peace negotiations might involve engaging with Russia, Zelensky dismissed the notion, citing past diplomatic failures. Vance, in turn, called Zelensky’s behavior disrespectful.
Rubio Criticizes Zelensky’s Behavior and Calls for Apology
Rubio voiced frustration over the interaction, calling it a distraction from efforts to bring peace. He suggested that Zelensky should apologize for wasting time and failing to seriously engage in peace talks. “He should apologize for turning this into a fiasco,” Rubio stated.
Rubio Emphasizes the Need for Serious Peace Efforts
Rubio reaffirmed that Zelensky would be welcomed back to the White House if he was serious about pursuing peace. He stressed that aggression would not help end the war, adding that it would take careful negotiation to bring Russian President Vladimir Putin to the table.
Trump’s Role in Potential Peace Talks
While acknowledging the complexity of the ongoing conflict, Rubio noted that Trump may be the key figure to help end the war. “Tonight, people will die in Ukraine,” Rubio said, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic resolution.
He called on the international community to allow Trump the opportunity to broker peace.
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