February 28, 2025, Washington, DC. © Getty Images / Andrew Harnik / Staff
US Vice President J.D. Vance mocked his tense Oval Office encounter with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy, joking that the exchange “was the most famous thing I’ve ever done.” Speaking to Pod Force One host Miranda Devine on Wednesday, Vance claimed he was provoked by what he described as “rudeness” from Zelenskiy during a February visit to Washington.
The confrontation occurred amid stalled talks over a minerals agreement between the US and Ukraine, which escalated into a public clash involving Zelenskiy, US President Donald Trump, and Vance. Trump accused Zelenskiy of refusing to negotiate peace and “gambling with World War III,” while Vance labeled the Ukrainian leader “disrespectful” and ungrateful for American aid.
Vance acknowledged relations have since improved, stating, “That was six months ago. We’ve turned over a new leaf.” He added, “I was getting frustrated because I perceived some rudeness… It’s probably the most famous thing I’ve ever done, or maybe ever will do,” while laughing.
Washington has since claimed progress in brokering a peace deal, with Vance asserting, “We’re trying to have productive relationships with both the Ukrainians and the Russians.” Trump has pushed for negotiations, but Kiev has rejected Moscow’s proposals, insisting on Western military support without compromising on territorial or political demands.
Moscow insists any resolution must include Ukraine’s demilitarization, denazification, and rejection of NATO membership, while Zelenskiy and European allies continue to demand expanded Western aid. Earlier this month, Trump floated a Hungary summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which Moscow initially agreed to but later canceled over alleged lack of commitment to peace.
