During the recent NATO summit in the Netherlands, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took the opportunity to publicly thank President Donald Trump and the United States for its continued support. This gesture was made shortly after a tense exchange between Zelenskyy and Vice President JD Vance in February, when Vance had criticized Zelenskyy for not expressing sufficient gratitude for American aid. The recent meeting in The Hague represents a shift, albeit subtle, in the relationship between Zelenskyy and Trump, showing a willingness to engage despite past conflicts.
Zelenskyy’s post on X emphasized their discussion on achieving a ceasefire and protecting Ukrainian citizens, expressing gratitude for the attention and support. Trump, while not fully endorsing a peace plan, acknowledged the meeting as productive and expressed hope for a resolution. The incident highlights the complex geopolitical landscape as both leaders continue to navigate the ongoing conflict.