Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the White House on Monday for discussions with US President Donald Trump to seek a resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine. European leaders altered their schedules to attend, following a summit between Trump and Russia’s President Putin in Alaska, which did not result in a ceasefire.
Key points from the Washington talks include:
**Zelensky’s Diplomatic Approach**
Following a tense visit in February, Zelensky aimed to foster goodwill with the US by expressing gratitude multiple times early in the meeting. Previously criticized for his attire, Zelensky wore a dark suit this time. He humorously addressed a reporter’s compliment by saying he wore the “same suit” as before, drawing laughter from the attendees. Zelensky also delivered a letter from the Ukrainian First Lady to Melania Trump, days after Trump had given a letter from his wife to Putin urging protection for children and future generations.
**Security Assurance Discussions**
Zelensky was asked what Ukraine requires for security guarantees, to which he emphatically replied, “Everything,” emphasizing the need for a robust Ukrainian army supported by weapons, personnel, training, and intelligence. Trump hinted at security assurances for Ukraine, stating Europe would primarily defend Ukraine, with the US also involved. He indicated Biden’s acceptance of security guarantees as part of a peace deal during their Alaska meeting with Putin. However, specifics of these guarantees remain unclear, causing concern for Kyiv and Europe. A further commitment of American support, such as troops, could strengthen the deterrent but seems challenging to secure at this stage.
**Potential Trilateral Meeting**
Trump expressed intentions to organize a meeting with Zelensky and Putin, describing it as an issue of “when, not if.” While less complex than establishing peace terms, arranging such a meeting remains challenging. Zelensky has advocated meeting Putin to underscore Russia’s lack of commitment to peace. The Kremlin has consistently rejected such meetings, claiming that significant diplomatic distance remains between the leaders’ positions. Trump hopes his efforts are bridging this gap.