House Speaker Mike Johnson has suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should either shift his stance on peace negotiations or step down to bring an end to the war with Russia. His comments follow a tense meeting between Zelenskyy, President Trump, and Vice President JD Vance, which led to the Ukrainian leader being ejected from the White House.
Mike Johnson Suggests Zelenskyy Should Resign for Peace
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) stated that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy may need to resign if he does not change his approach to peace talks. His remarks come after a contentious Oval Office meeting between Zelenskyy, Trump, and Vance, during which Trump criticized Zelenskyy for not showing enough “gratitude” toward the U.S.
Tensions in the Oval Office: Trump vs. Zelenskyy
- Zelenskyy, Trump, and Vice President JD Vance met to discuss a minerals deal and future security guarantees for Ukraine.
- The meeting ended in a heated exchange, leading to the cancellation of Zelenskyy’s remaining U.S. visit.
- Trump later posted on Truth Social, saying Zelenskyy had “disrespected” the U.S. and would only be welcomed back “when he is ready for peace.”
Johnson Defends Trump, But Condemns Putin
- Johnson defended Trump, blaming Zelenskyy for the failed negotiations.
- However, he also criticized Putin, calling him an “adversary” and stating, “Putin is the aggressor; it is an unjust war.”
- Trump has avoided openly condemning Putin, making Johnson’s remarks stand out.
Republican Division Over Ukraine
- Some Republicans, like Sen. Lisa Murkowski, criticized Trump’s actions, saying the U.S. is “walking away from our allies and embracing Putin.”
- Johnson dismissed Murkowski’s criticism, insisting that Zelenskyy was the one who “walked away from the table.”
What’s Next?
Johnson’s remarks add to the growing divide in Washington over how to handle the Ukraine war. While some Republicans support continued aid, others push for a negotiated settlement that could pressure Zelenskyy to step aside.
COMMENTS