(WASHINGTON) – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington for talks on ending the war in Ukraine. The meeting, described as cordial, followed months of tense exchanges between the two leaders and included European leaders from the UK, France, Italy, Finland, and the European Commission.
During the discussions, Trump said the US would provide Ukraine with “very good protection” but offered no clear details on what this would involve. When asked if Nato-like guarantees were on the table, he said this had not yet been discussed. Zelensky emphasised Ukraine’s need for “everything,” including weapons, intelligence, personnel, and training support from the US and European partners.
A key topic was whether a ceasefire was necessary for peace. Trump indicated that he no longer expects Russia to agree to a ceasefire, citing strategic concerns, a position likely welcomed in Moscow. He suggested that discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin later in the day could pave the way for future peace talks.
European allies of Ukraine have been preparing a “coalition of the willing” to reassure Kyiv in the event of a ceasefire, but British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has noted that US involvement would be essential. The nature of any US backstop is not fully known but may include air support, logistics, and intelligence capabilities.
While much of the meeting focused on security guarantees and military support, there were lighter moments. Zelensky presented a personal letter from his wife to Melania Trump, thanking her for efforts to help bring Ukrainian children home from Russia. He also handled a friendly exchange about his choice of attire, drawing laughter from the media.
Across Ukraine, air raid alarms sounded in the east during the talks, highlighting the ongoing risks on the battlefield. A map of the country in the Oval Office reminded all parties that roughly 20 percent of Ukraine remains under Russian control. The discussion showed optimism but few concrete agreements, and the outlook for reconciliation between the leaders’ positions on territorial recovery remains uncertain.
Trump said he loved both the Ukrainian and Russian people and sought an end to the conflict. Zelensky stressed the need to strengthen Ukraine’s army and secure international support.
