US Secretary of State Calls on Zelensky to Apologize for “Wasting Time”
On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to apologize following a heated verbal clash with President Donald Trump at the White House. The incident has intensified scrutiny on Ukraine’s diplomatic stance amid ongoing tensions.
Rubio’s Call for a Zelensky Apology
Speaking to CNN, Rubio insisted that Zelensky “should apologize for wasting our time on a meeting destined to end this way.” He criticized the Ukrainian leader’s actions, saying, “We’ve outlined our plan clearly—bring the Russians to the negotiating table. But over the last ten days, and in all our communications with the Ukrainians, there have been complications, including Zelensky’s public statements.” Rubio openly questioned Zelensky’s commitment to peace, asking whether he was truly prepared to reach an agreement.
Rubio went further, stating, “Maybe he doesn’t want a peace deal. He says he does, but perhaps he doesn’t.” He described Zelensky’s approach as “deeply frustrating,” accusing him of undermining efforts to secure peace between Ukraine and Russia.
Zelensky’s Defiant Response
Hours after the altercation, Zelensky rejected the idea of owing Trump an apology. In an interview with Fox News broadcast Friday evening, he said, “I respect the president [Trump] and the American people.” When the host asked if he would apologize, Zelensky replied, “I think we should be open and honest. I don’t believe we’ve done anything wrong.”
The Ukrainian president, whose country has endured a Russian assault for three years, stressed his commitment to ending the conflict. “No one wants to stop this war more than we do,” he emphasized.
Implications of the Zelensky Apology Demand
Rubio’s demand and Zelensky’s refusal highlight a growing rift between Washington and Kyiv. As the U.S. pushes for peace negotiations with Russia, Zelensky’s stance could complicate diplomatic efforts. This escalating tension raises questions about the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations.
