The furious spat between US President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky may have been instigated by a conservative commentator’s question.
On Friday, Mr Zelensky visited Mr Trump at the White House. It was expected that they would sign a significant minerals deal, handing the US control over £400 billion worth of natural resources, to bring an end to the war with Russia much closer.
The US President’s jibing tone seemed apparent right from the start of Mr Zelensky’s visit. When he arrived at the White House, President Trump said the Ukrainian leader was “all dressed up today.”
Mr Zelensky’s attire was also a subject of discussion when, before Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky’s explosive row, a Trump-supporting commentator asked the Ukrainian leader: “Why don’t you wear a suit? Do you own a suit? A lot of Americans have a problem with you not respecting the dignity of the office.”
Mr Zelensky replied: “I will wear a costume after this war will finish. Maybe something like yours, maybe something better, I don’t know. We will see. Maybe something cheaper.”
This moment came shortly before the conference descended into chaos.
The much-anticipated minerals deal was not signed after Mr Trump branded Mr Zelensky “disrespectful” and warned him that he was “gambling with World War 3” during the 50-minute clash.
Vice-President JD Vance also accused the Ukrainian leader of failing to show gratitude for the support from the US, asking him if he had ever said “thank you” for the military aid.
Mr Zelensky attempted to warn them both that they will “feel it in the future” if they don’t continue to help Ukraine against Russia.
But, Mr Trump bit back: “Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel. You’re in no position to dictate that.
“You don’t have the cards right now. You’re gambling with millions of lives.”
According to reports, Mr Zelensky and his team from Ukraine were told to leave the White House after the row. A press conference had been scheduled, but it was cancelled.
Mr Trump posted on Truth Social that he felt Mr Zelensky was not “ready for peace.”
He said: “We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today. Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure.
“It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations.
“I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE. He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”
The clash also signalled the growing divide between the US and Ukraine’s allies in Europe.
Numerous European allies, including European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron, expressed support for Mr Zelensky after the unsavoury scenes at the White House.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed “unwavering support for Ukraine” after speaking with both Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky on Friday night.
A Downing Street spokeswoman said: “The Prime Minister has tonight spoken to both President Trump and President Zelensky.
“He retains unwavering support for Ukraine, and is doing all he can to find a path forward to a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security for Ukraine.”
