The recent exchange between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former U.S. President Donald Trump was more than just a political discussion. It was a power play. Trump showed clear bias toward Russia while Zelensky struggled to navigate the negotiation effectively. Through the lens of The 48 Laws of Power, it becomes clear that Zelensky made key missteps, failing to adapt to Trump's transactional mindset. His rigid stance, predictable messaging, and failure to appeal to Trump's ego weakened his position. In power dynamics, being right is never enough. Strategy determines success.