Volodymyr Zelensky refuses to apologize for shouting match with Trump: ‘Not sure we did something bad’

WASHINGTON, DC: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has refused to apologize to President Donald Trump despite the fallout from their heated exchange at a meeting in the Oval Office on Friday, February 28.

The altercation, which unfolded during a White House press conference, has become the latest chapter in the complex relationship between the two leaders.

Volodymyr Zelensky refuses to apologize to Donald Trump

During his first major interview since the contentious meeting, Volodymr Zelensky was asked by Fox News if he owed Donald Trump an apology.

Zelensky, however, rejected the notion, twice filibustering before ultimately stating, "I'm not sure we did something bad."

"We're thankful to Americans for all your support, you did a lot, I'm thankful to President Trump and Congress' bipartisan support," Zelensky added.

"You helped us a lot from the very beginning, you helped us to survive. We are strategic partners," he said.

Despite this acknowledgment, when the question was raised again, Zelensky firmly refused to apologize, attempting instead to explain his position, Daily Mail reported.

"We have to be honest and we have to be direct with each other. Nobody wants to finish more than we because we are in this war, in this battle for freedom for our lives," Zelensky said, making it clear that his stance was rooted in the dire situation Ukraine faces in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

The disagreement between Zelensky and Trump stemmed from a fiery back-and-forth in the Oval Office on Friday. The confrontation escalated when Trump took offense at how Zelensky talked to Vice President JD Vance, during the press conference.

Trump and Vance accused Zelenskyy of not being grateful for American support for Ukraine.

Volodymyr Zelensky urges Donald Trump to be 'more on our side' as he stresses need for US support

In his interview with Fox News, Volodymyr Zelensky shifted focus from the personal confrontation to the larger issue at hand: the war in Ukraine. He expressed his desire for Trump to be "more on our side" and highlighted the importance of US support.

"I want President Trump to be more on our side," Zelensky said when asked about Trump’s position in the negotiations with Russia. "Trump said he will stop the war and I hope he will. We need to pressure him with Europe," he added.

Zelensky further clarified his position, adding, "Peace is not just the absence of war. We are speaking of a just, lasting peace."

Additionally, Zelensky rejected Trump’s claim that he was eager to return to the White House for a "do-over".

"No. First of all, we want peace, that's why we are in the US. The deal on minerals is the first step to security guarantees, it's the first step closer to peace. We have a tough situation, to understand it is to be in Ukraine," Zelensky explained.

The Ukrainian president also pointed out the importance of respecting his people, both military and civilian, saying, "I respect my soldiers and our people, our civilians who work and support our warriors. I can’t just say stop because everyone is afraid that Putin will come back tomorrow."

Despite what happened during the meeting, Zelensky made it clear that he still views the relationship between Ukraine and the US as one of strategic importance.

Volodymyr Zelensky's refusal to apologize draws support online

As soon as Volodymyr Zelensky refused to apologize to Donald Trump after their heated exchange in the White House, supporters quickly took to social media to show their backing for the Ukrainian president.

A supporter of Zelensky said, "Have Trump and Vance apologized Zelenskyy for disrespecting their guest? Another country’s president and a amazing leader that leads boldly through a bloody war!"

Another added, "I support Zelensky."

The third commentator remarked, "He didn’t disrespect anyone."

"He has nothing to apologize for," claimed one.

A person asserted, "I f**king love Zelensky. He’s not just a leader — he’s becoming the leader of the free world. And jut now? He said he doesn’t owe Trump a damn thing. Because real leaders don’t apologize to traitors. Simple as that."

On the other hand, many Trump supporters sharply criticized Zelensky, accusing him of not wanting peace. These critics argued that Zelensky’s refusal to apologize to the former president signaled a lack of willingness to engage in constructive diplomacy.

A user said, "He speaks about being free, yet he won't let his country have free elections. Weird."

"Its very confusing how someone who is begging others for help has the audacity to disrespect their leader... what is happening in this world lol," said a critic.

Another chimed in, "Zelensky’s arrogance is showing, he disrespected Trump in the Oval Office and now refuses to apologize."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.