Zelenskyy had multiple opportunities to shift the dynamic of this meeting but failed to seize them. As the discussion intensified, Trump asserted himself forcefully, understandably so, considering the history and stakes involved. Yet, he also dialed back the tension at key moments, opening the door for Zelenskyy to pivot. That chance went untaken.
Rather than engaging constructively, Zelenskyy sat with his arms folded, projecting defiance. A simple acknowledgment like, “You’re right, I’m sorry. I deeply value your nation’s support and alliance. Let’s reset and work together,” could have transformed the entire interaction.
Vance was Vance: powerful, incisive, and unyielding. I’ve been in high-stakes negotiations for over 40 years myself; things get fiery when the pressure hits. The trick is staying composed and on point, even when pressing an advantage.
Another lesson is not to negotiate in front of clients; it forces antagonistic behavior. Do that behind closed doors. The result will be the same, but it doesn’t lock you in, forcing you to figure out a way to save face. The people of the U.S. and Ukraine were the clients here.
Some lose sight of the fact that Zelenskyy was there to ink a mineral deal yet chose to try to bully Trump for money and promises with the media present. There’s a time to do it, but not the time he decided, especially when recognizing his dependence on the ally.
In my estimation, Trump navigated this skillfully, exposing Zelenskyy’s abrasiveness and letting Zelenskyy reveal himself as a thug. Vance’s pointed question, “Have you said thank you once?” was brilliant.
The Ukrainian people are the real losers here, stuck with a faltering leader. Trapped between Zelenskyy and Putin, they’re weary of being under fire. Yet their government has stoked the very tensions fueling the conflict. Ukrainians will resist as long as Russian attacks persist, and those attacks will continue as long as Zelenskyy plays the warmongering grifter.
Given the leaders inability to do so, people would value Trump’s effort to curb the fighting between these two warring countries.
