Zelenskyy commited a strategic mistake in the Oval Office
Posted By RichC on March 1, 2025
Friday afternoon I listened to Retired Four-Star General Jack Keane talk with David Asman on Fox Business talk about the unfortunate meeting between President Donald Trump, Vice-President JD Vance and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office on Friday. It was an astute observation and worth including.
| David Asman with Retired General Jack Keane on FBN | 2.28.2025 |
On that same subject, I’ve written some commentary for TheHustings.news (don’t know if it will be used?) and will include it below:
America First: Why Trump and Vance Are Right to force Zelenskyy’s hand
On February 28, 2025, the Oval Office hosted a fiery showdown that laid bare the stakes of America’s role in the Ukraine-Russia war. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and what unfolded was a blunt, no-nonsense exchange that reaffirmed a core truth: the United States must prioritize its own interests and demand accountability from those it supports. The discussion, which erupted into a shouting match, showcased Trump and Vance’s resolve to steer U.S. foreign policy toward pragmatism over endless handouts—a stance that’s long overdue.
The crux of America’s position came through loud and clear: after pouring billions into Ukraine’s fight against Russia, the U.S. has every right to expect gratitude and cooperation. Trump, raising his voice, drove this home, telling Zelenskyy, “You’re not really in a good position right now,” and urging him to “make a deal or we’re out.” Vance echoed this, calling out Zelenskyy’s public pushback as “disrespectful” in the Oval Office, especially given America’s sacrifices. They’re not wrong. Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, the U.S. has funneled over $174 billion in aid to Ukraine—more than any other nation—while American taxpayers foot the bill. A simple “thank you” isn’t too much to ask.
Zelenskyy’s response—questioning Vance’s diplomatic vision and pointing to Russia’s broken promises—missed the point. Trump and Vance aren’t here to relitigate Putin’s track record; they’re focused on ending a war that’s drained U.S. resources and risked broader escalation. Trump’s insistence that Zelenskyy is “gambling with World War III” reflects a sobering reality: Ukraine’s stubbornness could drag America into a conflict it doesn’t want. The President’s push for a negotiated peace isn’t weakness—it’s strength, a refusal to let Ukraine dictate terms while leaning on U.S. support. Vance nailed it when he said diplomacy, not chest-thumping, is the path to peace—a sharp break from the Biden era’s posturing that got us nowhere.
From the U.S. perspective, this isn’t about abandoning an ally; it’s about results. Trump made it clear: “If we’re out, you’ll fight it out. I don’t think it will be pretty.” That’s not a threat—it’s a fact. Ukraine’s manpower shortages and battlefield losses show it can’t win without America, yet Zelenskyy balked at the idea of compromise. The U.S. has leverage—military aid, economic support, and global clout—and it’s time to use it. Trump’s vision of a minerals deal with Ukraine, tying aid to tangible returns like rare-earth resources, is a smart play. Why should America keep giving without getting something back?
The Oval Office clash laid bare Zelenskyy’s miscalculation. He walked into America’s house, challenged its leaders in front of cameras, and expected unwavering support to continue. Trump and Vance rightly pushed back, reminding him that U.S. generosity isn’t a blank check. “Have you said ‘thank you’ once?” Vance asked—a fair question after years of American blood and treasure spent on Ukraine’s behalf. This isn’t about ego; it’s about respect for the nation that’s kept Ukraine afloat.
America’s stance today is a return to putting its own interests first. Trump and Vance aren’t caving to Putin—they’re forcing Zelenskyy to face reality and negotiate from a position of strength backed by U.S. might. The United States has carried the load long enough; it’s time for Ukraine to step up or step aside. As Trump said, “We’re trying to solve a problem.” That’s leadership—unapologetic, practical, and American to the core.
Comments