Edith Hejberg
The meeting marked a significant improvement from their tense Oval Office encounter in February.
During a landmark summit at the White House, President Donald Trump told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy the United States would help guarantee Ukraine’s security in any potential peace agreement with Russia.
Although the specifics remain unclear, Trump emphasized that European nations would play a key role, supported by U.S. backing.
Zelenskyy Applauds ‘Strong Signal’ from Washington
Zelenskyy welcomed Trump’s remarks as a “major step forward,” saying formal security guarantees could be finalized within 10 days. He also revealed Ukraine’s intent to purchase $90 billion in U.S. weapons.
The meeting marked a significant improvement from their tense Oval Office encounter in February.
European Allies Rally Behind Ukraine
Leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Britain, Finland, and the EU joined Zelenskyy in Washington to show unified support.
Their presence aimed to reinforce Ukraine’s push for solid security guarantees and underscore Europe’s commitment to Kyiv ahead of any peace negotiations.
Hopes for Trilateral Talks with Putin
Both Trump and Zelenskiy expressed optimism that the summit could lead to direct three-way talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump reportedly contacted Putin and began laying the groundwork for a trilateral summit. A possible meeting between Putin and Zelenskiy could take place in Hungary within two weeks.
Kremlin Pushes Back on NATO Involvement
Russia’s Foreign Ministry swiftly rejected the idea of NATO troops enforcing any peace deal.
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed Trump and Putin discussed the potential for elevating negotiations between Ukraine and Russia but did not agree to Western military presence.
Ceasefire Debate Divides Leaders
European leaders pushed for a ceasefire before any peace talks advance. While Trump initially supported that stance, he shifted after his meeting with Putin, aligning more closely with Russia’s call for a comprehensive peace deal.
“I wish they could stop,” Trump said, “but strategically, that could be a disadvantage.”
From Tense to Warm: A Shift in Diplomacy
February’s frosty exchange was replaced with a far friendlier tone. Trump warmly greeted Zelenskiy and praised his civilian attire, something that had reportedly irritated the U.S. president during their previous meeting.
The Ukrainian leader responded with repeated thanks and diplomatic poise.
Trump Seeks Rapid End to War—but on Whose Terms?
Trump has signaled urgency in ending what he called Europe’s deadliest war in 80 years.
Critics fear he may pressure Ukraine to accept a deal tilted in Russia’s favor. While Trump insists compromise is necessary, his stance puts the spotlight squarely on Ukraine to make concessions.
Crimea, NATO, and a Contested Peace Path
Trump’s team has suggested Ukraine may need to drop its ambitions to reclaim Crimea or join NATO, both longstanding goals for Kyiv.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed membership isn’t currently on the table but floated the idea of NATO-style security guarantees as an alternative.
War’s Toll and the Road Ahead
The conflict has killed or wounded more than a million people and devastated much of Ukraine. Any territorial concessions, including Russia’s push to annex remaining parts of Donetsk, would require a national referendum in Ukraine.
For now, peace remains elusive, yet Monday’s summit brought it one step closer.
