Washington: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s meeting with Donald Trump ended in conflict as the leaders clashed loudly in front of the world’s media at the White House over the war with Russia. Zelensky had hoped for the meeting to persuade the US not to support Russian President Vladimir Putin, but he faced criticism from Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, who accused him of disrespect.

Trump, who has championed ending the war and making peace between Ukraine and Russia since the start of his second presidency, has left Ukraine in a vulnerable position. Vance stressed the need for diplomacy to resolve Europe’s biggest conflict since World War II, while Zelensky said Putin could not be trusted.

The row continued in front of the press, with Trump accusing Zelensky of gambling with the lives of millions of people. Zelensky left the White House early without signing an expected deal to jointly develop natural resources.

The conflict has undermined European leaders' attempts to persuade Trump to provide security guarantees to Ukraine. Trump has threatened to cut off support for Ukraine, saying, "Either you make a deal or we leave, and if we leave, you're going to have to fight your own battles."

Zelensky has openly challenged Trump, calling for no compromise with Putin. But Trump has insisted on a deal with Putin, and Vance has highlighted Zelensky's disrespect for the Oval Office.

Zelensky, backed by the Biden administration, has faced a harsh response from Trump, who is eager to end the war quickly, improve relations with Russia, and, most importantly, recoup the money America spent on supporting Ukraine.