Pro-Ukraine Protests Erupt Across US, Target JD Vance in Vermont After Zelensky Clash

The aftermath of a contentious exchange between US President Donald Trump, Vice-President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House has triggered widespread pro-Ukraine demonstrations across the United States. One notable protest specifically targeted JD Vance in Vermont, where he and his family were planning a ski vacation.

Following the heated meeting at the White House, where Vance reportedly accused Zelensky of disrespecting the US and Trump urged Zelensky to negotiate with Russia or face the loss of US support, pro-Ukraine sentiment surged across the nation. Demonstrations took place in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Boston, with hundreds of people gathering to express their solidarity with Ukraine.

In Vermont, protesters lined a road in Waitsfield, anticipating the arrival of JD Vance and his family as they traveled to a planned ski resort. The protesters held up pro-Ukraine signs, effectively turning the Vance family’s planned route into a visual display of opposition to the administration’s stance on Ukraine. Reports from US media indicate that the Vance family ultimately relocated to an undisclosed location, abandoning their initial ski resort plans due to the demonstrations.

Judy Daly, from Indivisible Mad River Valley, the group that organized the protest, noted that the events at the White House likely galvanized even more people to participate. Another protester, Cori Giroux, stated that Vance “crossed the line” with his remarks to Zelensky.

Despite the targeted nature of the protest, Vermont Governor Phil Scott, a Republican who has publicly disagreed with Trump, urged residents to “be respectful” to the Vance family during their visit. He welcomed the Vice-President and his family to Vermont and expressed hope that they would enjoy their time in the state, while also reminding Vermonters that the Vances were there on a family trip with young children and deserved respect.

As of now, Vance, who has three young children with his wife Usha, has not publicly commented on the protests. Reports indicate that counter-protesters supporting Trump and Vance were also present in Waitsfield, suggesting a division of opinion within the community.

In related news, demonstrations also occurred outside Tesla stores across the US, protesting Elon Musk’s role in overseeing the Department of Government Efficiency (“Doge”) under Trump’s administration.

Meanwhile, following his visit to the White House, Zelensky traveled to the UK to meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He was later joined by European leaders and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in London for a summit focused on finding solutions to end the war in Ukraine and ensuring European security. Starmer has emphasized his commitment to acting as a “bridge” between Zelensky and Trump and mentioned a joint UK-France plan to stop the fighting, which would then be discussed with the United States.

The series of events highlights the complex interplay of domestic politics, international relations, and public opinion surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The targeting of JD Vance in Vermont underscores the intensity of feelings surrounding the administration’s approach to the situation.