Zelensky speaks to Fox News about peace, negotiations, and his dispute with Trump

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave an interview to an American media outlet following his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House on February 28. He discussed the reasons behind his dispute with US Vice President J.D. Vance and President Trump, the status of the mineral deal with the US, and the possibility of peace negotiations.

Zelensky shared these insights during an appearance on Fox News.

Trump dispute

Zelensky explained that certain "sensitive issues" arose during the discussion, particularly inaccurate statements by American politicians regarding the number of Ukrainians killed in the war and the territories lost.

"When prominent politicians claim that Ukraine is nearly destroyed, that our soldiers are fleeing, that they are not heroes, that Ukraine has lost millions of civilians, and that its president is a dictator—how should we respond? And this isn't about me personally. The real question is: where does that leave the friendship between the US and Ukraine?" the president said.

Zelensky acknowledged that the dispute was unfortunate. When asked if he regretted what happened at the White House, he responded, "Yes, it was not good." He believes that certain discussions with international partners should take place behind closed doors, away from the cameras.

"I don't want to lose our key partners in the US, and I've said this before," he continued. "We've had other discussions, including meetings in Munich, where I've urged: 'Please be accurate. Be precise with the numbers.' Every life matters. When people talk about millions of deaths—that's not true. We have not lost a million people. And when they say, 'Maybe some territories were lost,' they need to understand that it's not just land. It's homes. It's people's lives. No one wants to forgive Putin. This isn't funny or a fairy tale. It's real life. That's what I conveyed."

Zelensky also noted that Trump avoided discussions about security guarantees for Ukraine, instead proposing a simple "ceasefire" without any assurances.

Despite the tensions, Zelensky expressed deep gratitude to the American people, Trump, and Congress for their support. He remains optimistic that US-Ukraine relations can be preserved.

"This is about more than just two presidents. These are strong, historic ties between our nations. That's why I always begin with gratitude—from our people to yours. That is what truly matters," he said.

Rare earths deal

During Zelensky's visit to the White House, Ukraine and the United States were expected to sign a mineral agreement. However, following the dispute in the Oval Office, the signing did not take place.

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine remains committed to finalizing the agreement and is fully prepared to do so. He views this deal as a crucial first step toward securing broader security guarantees.

"The United States wanted this agreement, and we are not opposed to it," he explained. "But we need to understand what role security guarantees will play within this agreement."

Despite Ukraine's readiness, Zelensky admitted that he does not know when the deal will be signed.

"This agreement was carefully prepared by our teams over several weeks, and now it is ready," he said. "I believe it should be signed—by the countries, by the ministers, and that should be it. But I don't know when it will happen. That depends on the American side."

On peace negotiations

Following the White House dispute, Trump claimed that Zelensky does not want peace.

In response, Zelensky firmly rejected the accusation. "Ukraine wants peace, and negotiations will happen regardless," he stated. "I only emphasized that we seek a just and lasting peace, and to achieve that, we must be strong at the negotiating table."

He stressed that the United States, Europe, and Ukraine should participate in negotiations from a position of strength. However, he believes that securing firm security guarantees must come first—only then can diplomacy move forward.

Zelensky also addressed Trump's calls for an immediate ceasefire on the front lines.

"I can't simply tell our soldiers to 'stop' fighting. No one will stop because everyone fears that Putin will return the next day," he explained.

Earlier, Trump had claimed that he was "in the middle" between Ukraine and Russia. In response, Zelensky stated in an interview that he wished Trump would lean more toward supporting Ukraine.

On US assistance

Following the dispute between Zelensky and Trump, The Washington Post, citing its own sources, reported that the US may halt military aid to Ukraine. This potential suspension would affect supplies previously approved by the former American administration.

Commenting on the risks of losing US support, Zelensky stated, "It will be difficult for us without your support, but we cannot abandon our values."

On stepping down

Responding to the White House dispute, US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham told reporters that for the mineral deal to be revived, Zelensky would need to either change, resign, or send another negotiator.

Zelensky dismissed the suggestion, stating, "This decision can only be made by the people of Ukraine."

He also made it clear that he saw no reason to apologize to Trump after their disagreement.

"I respect Trump and the American people. I believe in openness and honesty. But I do not think I did anything wrong. There are moments when it is crucial to understand Ukraine's position and the views of Ukrainians," Zelensky said.

On February 28, during a meeting at the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a heated exchange with US President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance over the Russian-Ukrainian war.

Following the dispute, Trump claimed that Zelensky was "not ready for peace" but added that he "can return" if he changes his stance.

Zelensky left the White House early, and the signing of the Minerals Agreement did not take place. Later, he issued a statement thanking the United States for its support and for the meeting while reaffirming Ukraine's commitment to a just and lasting peace.

The White House later released its own statement on the meeting, emphasizing that President Trump's administration would always prioritize the interests of the American people and those who respect America's global position, while ensuring that the US is not taken advantage of for the benefit of others.