Dr. Evelyn Farkas, Executive Director at the McCain Institute, joined Arizona Horizon to discuss a reported heated exchange in the Oval Office between U.S. President Donald Trump, U.S. Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Feb. 28, 2025. The argument unfolded ahead of a proposed deal in which Ukraine would provide the U.S. with critical minerals in exchange for assistance in addressing Russia’s ongoing invasion.

The tense discussion reportedly centered on accusations from Trump and Vance that Zelenskyy was being “disrespectful” and ungrateful, with concerns that his stance could escalate global tensions. Dr. Farkas provided insight into the geopolitical stakes of the situation and its potential impact on U.S.-Ukraine relations.