Trump, Zelenskyy White House meeting leaves pro-Ukraine Republicans stunned
House Republicans who support Ukraine were left alarmed after an explosive Oval Office meeting ended with Kyiv’s leader being booted from the White House. Representative Don Bacon from Nebraska spoke out, comparing President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance to Democrats during the Cold War, highlighting a role reversal where Republicans were once the more hawkish party on Russia.
Bacon expressed his concerns, stating, “The U.S. is now on the wrong side of this war, against freedom.” He criticized Trump and Vance for their behavior during the meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, likening their approach to that of Democrats from previous decades. He emphasized his allegiance to the legacy of President Ronald Reagan.
Another House Republican, who wished to remain anonymous, blamed both sides for the tumultuous meeting, labeling it as a missed opportunity for both Ukraine and the United States and a victory for Russian President Vladimir Putin. The planned deal between Zelenskyy and Trump to grant the U.S. access to Ukraine’s critical minerals revenues veered off course amidst the tense exchange.
During the meeting, Trump chastised Zelenskyy for appearing ungrateful for U.S. aid against Russia’s invasion, warning him about the risks of World War III. Vice President Vance accused Zelenskyy of disrespecting the U.S. and urged him to show appreciation. Zelenskyy defended his actions, inviting Trump and Vance to witness the challenges faced by Ukraine firsthand.
The House Republicans who spoke with Fox News Digital expressed shock and concern for Ukraine’s future following the meeting. They criticized the administration for emboldening Putin and undermining U.S. strength and global leadership. Representative Mike Lawler from New York highlighted the shortsightedness of the exchange and the detrimental impact it could have on negotiations.
While some GOP lawmakers publicly praised Trump and Vance for their firm stance, others condemned the behavior displayed during the meeting. Representative Andy Biggs from Arizona commended the new administration for standing up for America, while House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast from Florida voiced support for their actions.
A source close to Vance attributed the confrontational atmosphere to Zelenskyy’s unexpected behavior. The White House defended Trump’s approach, emphasizing the importance of meaningful dialogue under pressure. Trump’s statement on the meeting indicated a willingness to pursue peace but called out Zelenskyy for disrespecting the Oval Office.
Former Representative Adam Kinzinger, a vocal Trump critic, condemned Zelenskyy’s behavior, suggesting that he had undermined Trump during the meeting. The fallout from the Oval Office encounter underscores the complex dynamics at play in U.S.-Ukraine relations and the challenges of navigating international diplomacy in a volatile geopolitical landscape.
