The internet has a new political meme star— US Vice President JD Vance. Following a tense Oval Office confrontation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on February 28, Vance has become the subject of viral memes, with social media users mocking his demeanor and remarks.
During the high-stakes meeting, Vance aggressively challenged Zelenskyy’s request for more US funding, questioning his credibility and warning that American support might dwindle if Ukraine didn’t accept Washington’s terms. The exchange reportedly strained diplomatic ties, but it was one particular phrase that set the internet ablaze—Vance’s repeated demand: “Did you even say thank you?”
Memes flooded X (formerly Twitter), with exaggerated edits of Vance as everything from an ogre to a spoiled child clutching a lollipop. Some gave him airbrushed features, plump lips, and perfectly groomed eyebrows. One widely shared post captioned, “JD Vance’s inner diva is finally unleashed.”
The fallout wasn’t just digital. As Vance vacationed in Vermont, he was met with a wave of protests from pro-Ukraine demonstrators carrying signs that read “International embarrassment” and “Vermont stands with Ukraine.” The backlash forced Vance and his family to relocate from their planned ski resort to an undisclosed location, reports say.
Meanwhile, President Trump jumped into the controversy, accusing Zelenskyy of “gambling with World War III” for refusing to compromise on Ukraine’s position. The visit ultimately ended in failure for Zelenskyy, who left Washington without securing additional US aid or finalizing a minerals deal.
The White House has yet to comment on the viral storm, but one thing is clear—JD Vance’s internet infamy isn’t fading anytime soon.
