Nate Vance, cousin of US Vice President JD Vance, criticized both JD Vance and President Donald Trump for their “belittling” treatment of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a February meeting. Nate, who volunteered with the Ukrainian military, expressed disappointment in the meeting’s lack of decorum, especially in front of cameras. He called Trump and JD Vance “useful idiots” for Putin, accusing them of undermining Ukraine’s efforts. During the meeting, Trump threatened to cut US support unless a deal was made, and JD Vance criticized Zelensky for being “disrespectful” in front of the media.
Nate rejected that claim, pointing out Zelensky’s daily expressions of gratitude and defending his choice of military-style clothing as a symbol of solidarity. He also criticized the media’s focus on Zelensky’s attire, highlighting the double standard with figures like Elon Musk. Nate, a lifelong Republican, called the meeting an “ambush of bad faith” and warned against growing isolationism, drawing parallels to the lead-up to World Wars One and Two. Zelensky later expressed regret over the exchange, while the US continues diplomatic efforts with both Ukraine and Russia.