Zelensky Gets UK Loan for Weapons – Will US Hold Line or Step Back
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on the United States to take a firmer stance in supporting Ukraine following a tense exchange with US President Donald Trump at the White House on March 1. Speaking in the United Kingdom, where he attended a European leaders’ summit, Zelensky stressed the need for continued US assistance despite what he described as a challenging dialogue with the American administration.
US-Ukraine tensions over support and security guarantees
During the White House meeting, Trump told Zelensky that Ukraine should negotiate a deal with Russia or risk losing US support. US Vice-President JD Vance also criticized Zelensky, questioning his approach to seeking aid. The meeting was originally intended to conclude with a rare earth minerals agreement, but Zelensky was asked to leave before it could be signed.
London. A meaningful and warm meeting with Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 1, 2025
During our talks, we discussed the challenges facing Ukraine and all of Europe, coordination with partners, concrete steps to strengthen Ukraine’s position, and ending the war with a just peace, along with… pic.twitter.com/IAwcPgbhYW
Afterward, Trump told reporters that Zelensky had «overplayed his hand» and needed to express willingness to negotiate peace in order to resume discussions with the US. Zelensky responded by emphasizing that Ukraine remains committed to peace but needs firm security guarantees.
«A ceasefire without security guarantees is dangerous for Ukraine. All Ukrainians want to hear a strong US position on our side,» he said.
UK strengthens military support
While in the UK, Zelensky met with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who confirmed a $2.8bn loan to Ukraine. Zelensky stated that the funds would be allocated to expanding weapons production in Ukraine, highlighting the UK’s ongoing commitment to Ukrainian defense efforts.
«We are happy to have such strategic partners and to share the same vision of what a secure future should look like for all,» Zelensky stated.
European leaders show support amid diplomatic strains
Following the White House meeting, European leaders expressed support for Ukraine, while NATO Secretary General urged Zelensky to find a way to rebuild relations with Trump. Despite tensions, Zelensky stated that Ukraine remained open to signing the minerals agreement as a first step toward securing US commitments but insisted that further support was necessary.
Meanwhile, Russia reacted to Zelensky’s US visit with criticism. Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia’s foreign ministry, described the trip as a diplomatic failure, accusing Zelensky of prolonging the war and reaffirming Russia’s intent to annex occupied territories.
As Ukraine continues to seek international backing, Zelensky emphasized the importance of clear and strong US support, urging allies to maintain a firm stance against Russia.
«It’s understandable the US might look for dialogue with Putin. but together we can take strong steps against him,» he concluded.
Earlier, Kursiv Uzbekistan reported that Trump accused Zelensky of ‘gambling with World War Three’. The conversation, which was expected to focus on a minerals deal and Ukraine’s security, instead unraveled into open conflict, with Trump telling Zelensky to be thankful for U.S. support and ultimately ejecting him from the White House.
