Newsweek reached out to Crockett via email on Saturday for comment.

Why It Matters

The clash between Trump and Zelensky represents a potential turning point in U.S.-Ukraine relations during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Rep. Crockett’s offer of apology to “the WORLD” highlights the domestic political divisions regarding America’s support for Ukraine and raises questions about the future of international alliances under the current administration.

What To Know

During their Oval Office meeting, Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelensky for what they perceived as insufficient gratitude for U.S. aid. Trump told the Ukrainian leader to change his “attitude” and accused him of “gambling with World War III” while pushing for Zelensky to pursue ceasefire negotiations with Russia.

When Zelensky challenged Vance’s call for diplomacy by citing Russia’s violations of previous agreements, tensions escalated further. Trump raised his voice, telling Zelensky, “You’re not acting at all thankful, and that’s not a nice thing.”

Following the heated exchange, the president canceled a planned minerals deal and a joint press conference. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated that Zelensky “disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office” and could “come back when he is ready for Peace.”

In response, Rep. Crockett condemned Trump on X as a “draft dodging dumb dupe” who humiliated an ally, while praising Zelensky as “an actual brave man who has actually been on a battlefield for his people.” Trump received five draft deferments during the Vietnam War—four for education and a fifth medical waiver for bone spurs in his heels after graduation in 1968. Critics have questioned this medical exemption, particularly as Trump later could not recall which foot had the condition.

What People Are Saying

Rep. Jasmine Crockett slammed Trump in a post on X: “It’s been a long day… but in short, bullies ain’t s***! I don’t care what title you hold! This isn’t some long gone reality tv show or failed casino…. this is war! How dare a draft dodging dumb dupe humiliate an ally and berate an actual brave man who has actually been on a battlefield for his people?!”

Crockett added: “Let me say this to the WORLD, I am sorry that the bright light America used to be is dimming.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters: “President Trump and Vice President Vance are standing up for the American people.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted on X: “Thank you @POTUS for standing up for America in a way that no President has ever had the courage to do before.”

British TV Host Piers Morgan weighed in on the confrontation on X: “The only winner from today’s Oval Office debacle is Vladimir Putin… and anyone who thinks that is a good thing for the world is stunningly deluded.”

Spain Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez posted a message of support: “Ukraine, Spain stands with you.”

Former National Security Adviser John Bolton on the day’s events: “Trump has put the US on the wrong side of the Russia-Ukraine war and it’s shameful.”

What Happens Next

The deterioration of the Trump-Zelensky meeting raises significant uncertainty about future U.S. support for Ukraine.

Trump’s post-meeting statement that Zelensky “is not ready for peace if America is involved” suggests a potential shift in U.S. policy regarding the conflict. Meanwhile, Zelensky maintained a diplomatic tone after the encounter, thanking America for its support and emphasizing Ukraine’s desire for “just and lasting peace.”