The Trump administration accuses European countries of obstructing a peace deal with Ukraine.
The occasion was Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent participation in a meeting in London with the leaders of Great Britain, France, and Germany, where they discussed developing a common position on Donald Trump's plan.
According to American and Ukrainian officials, Washington viewed the Downing Street talks as an attempt by Kyiv to stall for time on Trump's proposed peace plan.
At the same time, Ukrainian officials believe the US is seeking to distance Zelensky from its European partners in order to increase pressure on the Ukrainian side.
While the Trump administration is pushing for quick decisions, European leaders are urging Zelenskyy to take a more cautious and measured approach.
This difference in position has irritated some White House officials, who see European countries as the main obstacle to reaching an agreement.
