US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky react during a meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, February 28, 2025. [Photo/Agencies]
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a tense confrontation with US President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance at the White House on Friday, which led to the failure of a planned mineral resources agreement, and the cancellation of the subsequent joint press conference.
Trump accused Zelensky of being disrespectful to the US and claimed that he was not prepared to achieve peace.
This incident has triggered widespread support for Zelensky from European leaders.
Here's what they're saying:
French President Emmanuel Macron, who met Trump earlier this week, said: "We were right to help Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago—and to keep doing so".
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz wrote in a post on X that "nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians do," before adding that "Ukraine can rely on Germany – and on Europe".
Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party leader Friedrich Merz also said: We stand with Ukraine in good and in testing times".
Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said an "immediate summit" is needed between the US, Europe and its allies to discuss the conflict in Ukraine.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said: "Ukraine, Spain stands with you".
The UK's Prime Minister Keir Starmer is yet to make a comment but a spokesperson for No 10 says he has spoken to both Trump and Zelensky and that “he retains unwavering support for Ukraine, and is doing all he can to find a path forward to a lasting peace".
Senior EU leaders also showed support. President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said: "You are never alone, dear president. We will continue working with you for a just and lasting peace".
Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas said: "Ukraine is Europe! We stand by Ukraine".
President of the European Council António Costa also showed support by praising that Zelensky’s dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people.
"Be strong, be brave, be fearless. You are never alone, dear President Zelensky. We will continue working with you for a just and lasting peace," he added.
Zelensky in response quoted these posts with "Thank you for your support."
However, not all European leaders stood behind Ukraine. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban expressed support for Trump on X, commending him "for standing bravely for peace. Even if it was difficult for many to digest".
