Washington: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated last night that he would not apologize to US President Donald Trump following their dispute during a meeting at the White House on Friday. Zelenskyy expressed respect for the president and the American people, emphasizing the importance of openness and honesty in their relations.

According to Qatar News Agency, Zelenskyy acknowledged that the disagreement with President Trump is not beneficial for either side. He highlighted that Ukraine cannot abruptly change its stance towards Russia, reinforcing his country’s position that peace talks will not commence until Ukraine receives security assurances against further attacks. Zelenskyy pointed out Trump’s belief that Russian President Vladimir Putin is prepared to end the ongoing three-year conflict.

President Trump, in response, dismissed the possibility of immediate talks resuming with Zelenskyy following the White House incident. US Vice President JD Vance, who was present during the meeting, characterized Zelenskyy’s behavior as “disrespectful.” Vance, who previously ran for the US Senate from Ohio in 2022, had criticized the focus on the Ukraine-Russia border, calling it “ridiculous” for the United States.