Trump Says Relationship With Zelensky Has Improved After Last Year’s Oval Office Clash

President Donald Trump said his relationship with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has improved dramatically since their tense Oval Office confrontation last year, describing the Ukrainian leader as someone with whom he now has a “good relationship.”

Speaking during the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump praised Zelensky’s recent leadership and battlefield performance while expressing optimism about future cooperation between Washington and Kyiv. At one point, Trump accidentally referred to Zelensky as “President Putin” before immediately correcting himself.

The warmer tone marks a significant shift from the highly publicized Oval Office meeting in 2025, when Trump and Vice President JD Vance sharply criticized Zelensky during a televised exchange that strained relations between the two governments.

Trump also indicated he would consider visiting Ukraine and highlighted the country’s recent military successes against Russian forces. Administration officials said the president has become increasingly impressed by Ukraine’s battlefield effectiveness and willingness to defend itself.

The improving relationship comes as the Trump administration announced it will allow Ukraine to manufacture Patriot interceptor missiles under a U.S. license, a move aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses while expanding defense cooperation between the two countries.

The comments signal a notable change in the administration’s approach to Ukraine as NATO leaders continue discussions on European security, military cooperation, and the ongoing war with Russia.