**Zelensky Leaves White House Early After Heated Exchange with Trump**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky left the White House early on Wednesday, after a heated argument with US President Donald Trump. The two leaders got into a dispute while speaking with journalists in the Oval Office.
The tense exchange occurred around 1:45 p.m. local time, and Zelensky’s motorcade departed shortly afterwards. A joint news conference scheduled for later in the day was cancelled.
**Trump Responds to Zelensky**
US President Trump took to his social media platform TruthSocial to respond to the incident. He wrote: “He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for peace.”
**Mineral Deal Not Signed**
A source close to the matter told CNN that the mineral deal between the US and Ukraine was not signed following the tense exchange. This suggests that the agreement, which had been expected to be finalized during Zelensky’s visit, may now be put on hold.
**White House Official Speaks Out**
A White House official told Reuters that Trump felt “disrespected” by Zelensky’s “rhetoric and demeanor.” The official added that Trump is not ruling out an agreement with Zelensky, but it will be up to Kyiv to reschedule the meeting.
**Zelensky Responds on Social Media**
Ukrainian President Zelensky responded to the incident on social media, thanking the US for their support. He wrote: “Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you @POTUS, Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.”
**Vice President Vance Weighs In**
During the exchange, US Vice President JD Vance asked Zelensky: “Have you said thank you once? In this entire meeting, have you said thank you?”