**Title: Tensions Rise During Zelensky's Oval Office Visit, According to New Book**
In a revealing account from a forthcoming book by New York Times reporters Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed significant concerns regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's behavior during a critical signing ceremony in the Oval Office. The event, which aimed to finalize a rare earth minerals deal between the United States and Ukraine, was marked by tension and unexpected confrontations.
The signing ceremony took place last year, with President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance present. Bessent, who had invested considerable effort in negotiating the deal, reportedly feared that Zelensky might disrupt the proceedings. According to excerpts published by the Guardian, Bessent referred to Zelensky in disparaging terms, labeling him a “little f**ker” and likening his demeanor to that of “Mr. Bean on crack.” This characterization highlights Bessent's frustration with Zelensky's unpredictable behavior.
During the press conference that followed the signing, Zelensky openly criticized Trump's approach to the ongoing conflict with Russia, suggesting that the President should focus more on providing military support to Ukraine rather than pursuing diplomatic negotiations. This public disagreement was seen as a significant misstep, especially given the delicate nature of US-Ukrainian relations at the time.
Bessent's concerns were not isolated; other members of Trump's administration shared similar apprehensions. Former National Security Adviser Mike Waltz reportedly urged Zelensky to present himself appropriately for the occasion, advising him to "come wearing a suit." The atmosphere in the Oval Office was described as tense, with Bessent recalling a heated exchange he had with Zelensky in Ukraine prior to the signing. Bessent reportedly confronted Zelensky about an "awful" draft of the agreement, asking him directly, “What the f**k do you want to do?”
Despite the tumultuous backdrop, the deal was ultimately signed two months later, albeit without the anticipated fanfare. Zelensky's visit to the White House concluded with him being “asked to leave,” a decision that underscored the strained dynamics between the Ukrainian leader and the Trump administration.
In the aftermath of the incident, Zelensky has made efforts to mend his relationship with Trump, participating in several meetings and adopting a more formal appearance, including a custom all-black military-style suit jacket. However, reports indicate that the fallout from the altercation lingered for Zelensky, affecting his interactions with US officials for some time.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the revelations from Bessent and the accounts of the Oval Office visit provide insight into the complexities of diplomatic relations between the United States and Ukraine, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions with Russia. The book by Haberman and Swan is expected to shed further light on these dynamics and the challenges faced by leaders on both sides.