US VP Vance Calms Tension with Zelensky at White House Summit

At a recent White House summit hosted by President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance attempted to ease tensions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky by opening with the icebreaker, "Mr. President, so long as you behave, I won’t say anything," recalling their previously heated encounter in February. That earlier meeting had been confrontational, with Trump and Vance jointly criticizing Zelensky and halting a crucial mineral deal. The recent summit was notably more cordial and involved European leaders, reflecting ongoing peace discussions regarding Russia’s war on Ukraine. Vance credited Trump’s unconventional diplomatic style, including an impromptu call to Russian President Vladimir Putin following a summit, as instrumental in making progress toward peace talks. Despite the improved atmosphere, observers noted Vance’s icebreaker was still seen as patronizing and sparked criticism. Overall, the dynamics between the U.S. and Ukraine at the White House have evolved from hostility to a more restrained engagement amid complex geopolitical negotiations.