Pro-Ukraine rallies erupted in various cities across the United States following a confrontation in the Oval Office between former President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Protests unfolded in major urban areas including New York City, Los Angeles, and Boston, with citizens expressing their solidarity with Ukraine amidst escalating tensions over the ongoing war with Russia.
In rural Waitsfield, Vermont, where Vice President Vance was vacationing with his family, protesters lined the streets bearing signs in support of Ukraine. Concerns over the White House altercation prompted demonstrators to gather even before the scheduled trip of Vance's family. "Friday’s performance at the White House probably galvanised even more people to come out today,” remarked Judy Daly from the organizing group Indivisible Mad River Valley.
The Vermont governor, Phil Scott, a Republican who has publicly distanced himself from Trump, appealed for respectful treatment of the vice president and his children during their stay. Despite the calls for civility, tensions were palpable as counter-protesters appeared in support of Trump and Vance.
Nationwide, protests also spread to Tesla dealerships as demonstrators voiced opposition against CEO Elon Musk's proposed cuts to government spending as part of his new role overseeing the Department of Government Efficiency, dubbed Doge.
During the Oval Office confrontation, Trump confronted Zelensky, suggesting he ought to negotiate peace with Russia, expressing dissatisfaction with Ukraine's acknowledgment of US support, and labeling Zelensky's approach as risky in terms of triggering larger conflicts. Vance’s remarks added tension to the discussion, and the fallout from the encounter has intensified public sentiment regarding US involvement in Ukraine.
As Zelensky is set to join European leaders for a summit focused on military support and recovery efforts, the domestic protests reflect a growing divide in public opinion about US foreign policy and military aid during critical global conflicts.
