WASHINGTON, DC – Vice President JD Vance has admitted that his remarks may have fueled the explosive confrontation between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Trump administration during a heated Oval Office meeting on February 28.
Speaking with Fox News’ Laura Ingraham, Vance clarified that the clash wasn’t planned, but his response to a reporter’s question seemed to trigger Zelensky’s frustration. “What happened is the same reporter had asked two questions I thought were unfair… I just wanted to answer, and of course, something I said caused the blow-up,” Vance explained.
While maintaining that he remains respectful of his role as vice president, Vance suggested that he steps in when necessary to reinforce Trump’s stance. “Sometimes the president wants me to say things,” he noted, adding that if he feels his input is valuable, he doesn’t hesitate to share it.
Tensions Boil Over in the Oval Office
During the tense Oval Office discussion, Trump, Vance, and Zelensky clashed over Ukraine’s war strategy. Sources say Vance urged Zelensky to explore diplomatic solutions to the ongoing conflict with Russia, prompting a sharp response from the Ukrainian leader.
“Diplomacy is needed to end this war,” Vance reportedly said. Zelensky, unconvinced, shot back, “What kind of diplomacy?”
The discussion quickly escalated, with Vance questioning whether it was “respectful” for Zelensky to criticize the U.S. administration inside the White House. Trump then stepped in, calling Zelensky’s remarks “disrespectful” and warning that Ukraine was “gambling with World War III.”
The fiery exchange lasted nearly 45 minutes, underscoring growing tensions over U.S. support for Ukraine and the administration’s expectations from Kyiv.
Vance Dodges Tesla Question, Jokes Fly
Beyond the Zelensky controversy, Vance found himself in an awkward moment when Ingraham pressed him on whether he planned to buy a Tesla following Trump’s high-profile purchase. Instead of giving a direct answer, Vance simply replied, “I can’t drive anymore.”
Not letting it go, Ingraham jokingly responded, “Nice dodge. A nice DOGE,” referencing the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
Meanwhile, Vance dismissed speculation of major internal conflicts within the administration, insisting that while disagreements exist, they don’t translate to division. “There’s certainly disagreement from time to time,” he said, but added that he has been impressed with key administration figures like Marco Rubio and Elon Musk.
With the Trump administration taking a firm stance on Ukraine and internal dynamics continuing to evolve, all eyes are now on how these tensions will shape U.S. foreign policy in the months ahead.
