Protests Erupt in Vermont as JD Vance Faces Backlash After Heated Zelensky Exchange

Sat Dec 20 2025 08:43:29 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Demonstrations across multiple US cities target Vice-President JD Vance following a contentious Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

In response to a recent clash between Vice-President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, public protests erupted in Vermont and other cities, prompting concerns over political tensions and a public outcry for support of Ukraine.

Protests erupted in Vermont and across major US cities over the weekend as Vice-President JD Vance faced backlash following a heated exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a White House meeting. Demonstrators gathered along the route expected to be taken by Vance and his family en route to a ski trip in Waitsfield, brandishing pro-Ukraine signs.

The uproar was sparked by an angry confrontation in the Oval Office where Vance accused Zelensky of being disrespectful to the United States. This fractious exchange was compounded by President Donald Trump, who implored Zelensky to negotiate a deal with Russia, warning, "or we are out," and characterized Zelensky’s attitude as playing with fire regarding World War Three.

Local protest organizer Judy Daly, from Indivisible Mad River Valley, indicated that the provocations in the Oval Office had mobilized citizens, stating, “[Vance] crossed the line.” Another protester, Cori Giroux, echoed this sentiment, underscoring community frustration with the administration's stance toward Ukraine.

Earlier in the week, Vermont's Governor Phil Scott had urged the public to remain respectful during Vance’s family visit, appealing to Vermont’s hospitality despite political disagreements. The governor, a Republican who did not support Trump, noted the potential economic benefits of winter tourism, highlighting the snowy conditions in the area.

Protests supporting Ukraine also took place in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Boston. The demonstrations coincided with counter-protests supporting Trump and Vance in Waitsfield, marking a complex political atmosphere surrounding the Vice-President’s visit.

As Vance’s family adjusted their plans for the ski trip amidst the demonstrations, he remained publicly silent on the unfolding events. In related news, Zelensky traveled to the UK shortly after the confrontation to meet with European leaders to discuss strategies for ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, further highlighting the significant political ramifications of his White House encounter.