JD Vance stunned the world by asking Ukraine’s Zelensky, “Have you said thank you once?” during a fiery Oval Office clash on February 28, 2025.

On February 28, 2025, a dramatic confrontation unfolded in the Oval Office as U.S. Vice President JD Vance challenged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with a pointed question: “Have you said ‘thank you’ once?” This moment, captured on camera, marked a turning point in U.S.-Ukraine relations and sparked global reactions. Here’s everything you need to know about the fiery exchange, its context, and what it means for international diplomacy.

The Oval Office Showdown: What Happened?
The meeting began with high stakes. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance welcomed Zelensky to discuss U.S. support amid the Russia-Ukraine war. Tensions flared when Vance accused Zelensky of disrespecting Trump by debating him in front of the media. The vice president then escalated the situation, demanding gratitude: “Have you said ‘thank you’ once this entire meeting?”

Zelensky, visibly taken aback, responded, “I said it a lot of times,” defending his repeated expressions of thanks to the U.S. Trump joined in, insisting Zelensky wasn’t “acting thankful” and warning him about “gambling with World War III.” The exchange ended abruptly, with Zelensky leaving the White House earlier than planned, canceling a scheduled press conference.

Why Did JD Vance Demand Gratitude?
Vance’s question wasn’t random. As a long-time skeptic of U.S. aid to Ukraine, he has argued that American taxpayers deserve appreciation for their support. Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, the U.S. has provided billions in military and economic aid to Ukraine. Vance, echoing Trump’s “America First” stance, has criticized Zelensky for not acknowledging this enough. His blunt remark reflects a broader shift in Republican foreign policy toward isolationism.

elensky’s Response and Track Record of Thanks
Contrary to Vance’s claim, Zelensky has publicly thanked the U.S. multiple times. In a 2022 speech to Congress, he said, “Thank you so much… to all Americans who value freedom and justice.” After the Oval Office clash, he posted on X: “Thank you America, thank you for your support.” Critics argue Vance’s question ignored this history, while supporters say Zelensky’s tone during the meeting felt ungrateful.

Global Reactions to the Vance-Zelensky Clash
The incident sent shockwaves worldwide. Russia’s Dmitry Medvedev called it a “slap on the wrist” for Zelensky, while European leaders like France’s Emmanuel Macron defended Ukraine’s fight. U.S. critics, including Senator Amy Klobuchar, slammed Vance, noting Zelensky’s repeated gratitude. The event has fueled debates about U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s second term.

What This Means for U.S.-Ukraine Relations
The Oval Office shouting match has strained an already tense relationship. Trump’s push for a quick peace deal with Russia, excluding Zelensky from talks, has frustrated Kyiv. Vance’s confrontational stance signals a potential reduction in U.S. aid, leaving Ukraine’s future uncertain as it battles Russia.

JD Vance’s question, “Have you said ‘thank you’ once?” wasn’t just a jab—it was a statement of intent. As the Trump administration redefines America’s role on the global stage, this clash with Zelensky could mark the beginning of a new, tougher approach to allies. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.