J.D. Vance Targeted by Pro-Ukraine Protesters After Clash with Volodymyr Zelensky

A Chilly Welcome in Vermont

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance was met by hundreds of pro-Ukraine protesters during a ski weekend in Vermont on Saturday, March 1. Demonstrators gathered along the road leading to the Waitsfield resort, accusing him of “treason” and serving Moscow’s interests, holding signs that read: “Go Ski in Russia!” and “Trump Serves Putin.”

This protest followed a heated altercation the previous day between the American and Ukrainian leaders at the White House. J.D. Vance had criticized Volodymyr Zelensky for not expressing enough gratitude to the United States for military aid, stating, “You should thank President [Trump].” The accusation was unfounded, as Zelensky has publicly expressed his gratitude multiple times since 2022.

Diplomatic Tensions and American Division

The tense exchange culminated in Zelensky’s abrupt departure, leading to the cancellation of a joint press conference. Donald Trump later posted on Truth Social: “He can come back when he’s ready for peace.”

This stance shocked a portion of the American public, already concerned about the growing closeness between Washington and Moscow. While Vance remained silent in the face of the protests, he reiterated on X that the U.S. “cannot” provide weapons to Kyiv indefinitely.

In response, several European leaders gathered in London to explore new security guarantees for Ukraine, fearing a gradual withdrawal of U.S. support.

Meanwhile, in the Vermont mountains, anger persisted. “People are furious, especially after what happened yesterday,” said Judy Daly, one of the protest organizers. “We cannot abandon Ukraine.”

Despite Republican Governor Phil Scott’s calls for respect, the atmosphere remains polarized. Between unwavering Ukraine supporters and Trump loyalists, tensions continue to rise, reflecting the deep divisions within American society regarding the war in Europe.