Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently took to social media to express his deep gratitude to the United States, just days after a tense exchange with former US President Donald Trump at the White House. In a video message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s appreciation for American support while reinforcing the critical need for security guarantees to end the ongoing war.
His statement followed a public scolding from Trump, who accused Zelenskyy of not being sufficiently thankful for US assistance. Addressing the people of Ukraine, Zelenskyy clarified that his country has never taken this support for granted.
“There has not been a day when we haven’t felt gratitude,” he said, acknowledging that Ukraine’s independence and resilience are made possible through the aid of its allies. However, he reiterated that while appreciation is essential, what Ukraine truly needs is a lasting peace—and that peace hinges on security guarantees.
Security Guarantees: The Key to Ending the War
Zelenskyy firmly stated that Ukraine seeks a real resolution to the war, not an endless cycle of conflict.
“What we need is peace, not endless war. And that’s why we say security guarantees are the key to this,” he asserted.
He highlighted the strong and growing support from Europe, including the United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkey, and other allies. These nations agree that for peace to be sustainable, Ukraine must receive concrete security assurances. According to Zelenskyy, the entire European continent shares this perspective.
Strengthening Alliances and Moving Forward
The Ukrainian leader’s video message came shortly after his visit to London, where he attended a summit with European leaders to discuss Ukraine’s future. Despite the friction with Trump, Zelenskyy expressed optimism that the US-Ukraine relationship could still be salvaged.
“As regards salvaging the relationship, I think our relationship will continue,” he told reporters.
However, he also expressed concern about the public nature of his disagreement with Trump.
“I do not think it’s right when such discussions are totally open. The format of what happened, I don’t think it brought something positive or additional to us as partners,” he remarked.
Zelenskyy’s Bold Response to Senator Lindsey Graham
Adding another layer to the ongoing debate, Zelenskyy addressed comments made by US Senator Lindsey Graham, a strong Trump ally who has previously supported Ukraine. Graham had suggested that Zelenskyy should consider resigning—a statement that did not sit well with the Ukrainian leader.
Zelenskyy confirms that the only way he plans to resign is if Ukraine is accepted into NATO.
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) March 2, 2025
We need to leave NATO. This is an almost a certain path to large scale conflict.
I don't think America should be involved at all.pic.twitter.com/rEvaQNLSNl
In response, Zelenskyy offered a sharp yet humorous retort.
“Lindsey Graham is a very good guy… I can give him the citizenship of Ukraine,” he said. “He will become a citizen of our country, and then his voice will gain weight. And I will hear him as a citizen of Ukraine on the topic of who must be the president.”
The Ongoing Diplomatic Struggle
Graham’s remarks came after a heated exchange between Trump, Zelenskyy, and US Vice President JD Vance in the Oval Office. Following the meeting, Graham openly questioned whether the US could continue working with Zelenskyy, even suggesting that Ukraine should send a leader more willing to negotiate.
Calling the encounter a “complete utter disaster,” Graham accused Zelenskyy of being “disrespectful” toward Trump and praised the former US president’s handling of the situation.
What’s Next for US-Ukraine Relations?
Despite the recent tensions, Zelenskyy remains committed to securing lasting peace and maintaining strong international alliances. His latest statements suggest that while he deeply values US support, Ukraine’s priorities remain clear: ending the war and ensuring the country’s long-term security.
As diplomatic discussions continue, the world watches to see how Ukraine navigates its complex relationship with the US while striving for a future free from conflict.