In a heated response to a recent confrontation involving JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, public protests unfolded across Vermont and major US cities, highlighting escalating sentiments surrounding the Ukraine conflict.
Protests Erupt in Vermont as JD Vance Faces Backlash After Zelensky Clash
Protests Erupt in Vermont as JD Vance Faces Backlash After Zelensky Clash
Demonstrators express solidarity with Ukraine following tensions between Vance and Zelensky at the White House.
Protesters lined the streets of Waitsfield, Vermont, as Vice President JD Vance was set to travel with his family for a ski trip. The protests came in the wake of Vance's contentious exchange with Ukrainian President Zelensky during recent discussions at the White House, prompting demonstrators to showcase support for Ukraine.
Vance, along with President Trump, had faced significant backlash after a tense conversation where Vance accused Zelensky of disrespecting the United States. Trump further stirred controversy by pressing Zelensky to negotiate with Russia, suggesting dire consequences if Ukraine did not comply.
The protests, organized before the White House incident, saw many participants carrying signs that highlighted the ongoing war in Ukraine. Judy Daly from Indivisible Mad River Valley remarked that the recent events likely rallied even more supporters to the cause, stating, "I think [Friday's] performance at the White House has probably galvanised even more people to come out today."
Vermont Governor Phil Scott had encouraged respectful behavior towards the Vance family during their visit, although he himself has not supported President Trump. Vance, a father of three young children, has yet to publicly address the widespread protests. In addition to the Vermont demonstrations, similar gatherings occurred in cities like New York, Boston, and Los Angeles, showcasing broad support for Ukraine.
In a separate development, protests against Elon Musk were reported across several Tesla locations, focusing on his push for reduced government spending as he oversees the Department of Government Efficiency.
Following the White House tensions, Zelensky traveled to the UK for a summit with European leaders, promoting discussions on strategies to advance Ukraine's security and resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted the importance of collaborating with both Ukraine and the U.S. to forge a plan aimed at halting the fighting.
As events unfold, Vance and the broader Trump administration continue to face scrutiny for their handling of foreign relations, particularly with regards to Ukraine.
Vance, along with President Trump, had faced significant backlash after a tense conversation where Vance accused Zelensky of disrespecting the United States. Trump further stirred controversy by pressing Zelensky to negotiate with Russia, suggesting dire consequences if Ukraine did not comply.
The protests, organized before the White House incident, saw many participants carrying signs that highlighted the ongoing war in Ukraine. Judy Daly from Indivisible Mad River Valley remarked that the recent events likely rallied even more supporters to the cause, stating, "I think [Friday's] performance at the White House has probably galvanised even more people to come out today."
Vermont Governor Phil Scott had encouraged respectful behavior towards the Vance family during their visit, although he himself has not supported President Trump. Vance, a father of three young children, has yet to publicly address the widespread protests. In addition to the Vermont demonstrations, similar gatherings occurred in cities like New York, Boston, and Los Angeles, showcasing broad support for Ukraine.
In a separate development, protests against Elon Musk were reported across several Tesla locations, focusing on his push for reduced government spending as he oversees the Department of Government Efficiency.
Following the White House tensions, Zelensky traveled to the UK for a summit with European leaders, promoting discussions on strategies to advance Ukraine's security and resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted the importance of collaborating with both Ukraine and the U.S. to forge a plan aimed at halting the fighting.
As events unfold, Vance and the broader Trump administration continue to face scrutiny for their handling of foreign relations, particularly with regards to Ukraine.
