In stunning scenes on Friday that sent political shockwaves across Europe, Zelenskyy was mocked and belittled by Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who accused him of not doing enough to end Moscow’s full-scale invasion and being ungrateful for American aid.

Friedrich Merz, who is likely to be the next German chancellor, has been outspoken in his belief Europe needs to pursue greater independence from the US.

In an Oval Office meeting, Vance and Trump accused Zelenskyy of being "disrespectful." Afterward, Zelenskyy and Ukrainian officials were told to leave.