Kathrine Frich
The central topic of the meeting is expected to be Ukraine’s long-term security, especially as Trump suggests alternatives to full NATO membership.
The central topic of the meeting is expected to be Ukraine’s long-term security, especially as Trump suggests alternatives to full NATO membership.
Zelensky Heads to the White House
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will meet with Donald Trump in Washington on Monday, but he won’t be going alone.
To show a united front and avoid diplomatic isolation, Zelensky will be joined by several top European and NATO leaders.
The meeting is expected to focus on Ukraine’s future security guarantees — and how to keep Western support strong.
Ursula von der Leyen: Leading the EU’s Voice in Washington
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was the first to confirm her presence.
She posted on social media that she would attend the White House meeting at Zelensky’s request.
Von der Leyen has been one of Ukraine’s most vocal supporters in Brussels and is expected to push for continued European solidarity.
Friedrich Merz: Germany’s New Chancellor Enters the Spotlight
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is making one of his first major international appearances since taking office.
Germany remains one of the largest military and economic supporters of Ukraine.
Merz’s attendance signals Berlin’s commitment to stay at the center of any long-term agreement involving Kyiv.
Emmanuel Macron: France Pushes for a Unified European Message
French President Emmanuel Macron will also join Zelensky in Washington.
He is expected to emphasize Europe’s collective position and ensure France remains influential in any future settlement.
Before the White House visit, Macron will join a video call with other “coalition of the willing” leaders.
Giorgia Meloni and Keir Starmer: Rome and London Stand Firm
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and new British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have both confirmed their participation.
Meloni has taken a strong stance on supporting Ukraine, while Starmer’s government is aiming to show continued British leadership post-Brexit.
Their presence signals that Western European backing for Kyiv remains bipartisan and cross-national.
Alexander Stubb and Mark Rutte: Nordic and NATO Support
Finnish President Alexander Stubb will represent one of NATO’s newest and most vocal members.
He will be joined by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who is expected to coordinate messaging on security guarantees.
Their roles will be crucial in shaping any framework that could replace or supplement NATO’s Article 5 protections for Ukraine.
What’s at Stake: Security Guarantees and Political Optics
The central topic of the meeting is expected to be Ukraine’s long-term security, especially as Trump suggests alternatives to full NATO membership.
European leaders are also aiming to ensure Zelensky is not sidelined diplomatically, especially after Trump’s warmer rhetoric toward Vladimir Putin.
Behind closed doors, talks may include commitments of military aid, future peace terms, and coordination among allies.
Coalition of the Willing Holds Emergency Video Talks
Ahead of the White House summit, a video call between members of the “coalition of the willing” was held Sunday.
Macron, Merz, Starmer, von der Leyen, and others discussed unified strategies for dealing with Washington.
Romanian President Nicușor Dan also joined the call, reflecting broader European engagement beyond NATO’s core.
Trump Proposes a NATO-Like Deal, Without NATO
Donald Trump has hinted that Ukraine could receive a form of protection similar to NATO’s Article 5, but outside the alliance itself.
Such a plan could satisfy Russia’s demands to keep NATO from expanding, while still offering Kyiv security assurances.
It’s a controversial idea that may dominate discussions this week.
