Trump, Zelensky Get Into Heated Exchange at Oval

Peace talks between the US and Ukraine fell through on Friday after its two leaders were locked in an unprecedented clash at the Oval Office on Friday.

- Agencies

WASHINGTON:

Minutes after the acrimonious exchange, US President Donald Trump accused his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky of disrespecting the US and indicated he had called off the talks.

We have determined that President Zelensky 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 advantages. I want PEACE. He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he's ready for peace," Trump said on Truth Social.

Minutes earlier, Zelensky and Trump clashed repeatedly, with the Ukrainian urging Trump to be cautious with Russia.

The two leaders met in the Oval Office prior to an event at which they were expected to sign a deal for US participation in Ukraine's mineral industry. But Zelensky openly challenged Trump over his softer approach toward Russian President Vladimir Putin.