President Donald Trump has reportedly conditioned further assistance or deals with Ukraine on President Volodymyr Zelensky issuing a public apology for last week’s Oval Office confrontation. According to Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy, Trump made this demand after losing his temper during the meeting. ‘There’s quite a disconnect happening here at the White House and with their allies in Kyiv,’ Doocy stated on Fox News, explaining that no progress will be made on the minerals deal until Zelensky apologizes publicly for his behavior during the meeting.
Zelensky, however, appears optimistic about securing the minerals deal without issuing an apology. ‘Well, good luck because there is still a desire by Republicans in D.C. to end the war in Ukraine and make a deal with Ukraine on the way forward,’ Doocy noted. He added that while Republicans want peace in Ukraine, they are indifferent to whether Zelensky remains in power or is replaced, though no potential replacement has been identified yet.
The situation highlights growing tensions between Trump and Zelensky following their heated Oval Office meeting. The demand for a public apology underscores the significant political stakes involved, particularly as the U.S. considers its next steps in supporting Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia.