Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky returned to the White House on Monday for high-stakes discussions with US President Donald Trump, aimed at advancing peace efforts in Ukraine. The meeting also included several European leaders, just days after Trump met Russia’s President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, in a summit that failed to secure a ceasefire.
A key focus of the talks was the potential for a direct meeting between Zelensky and Putin. Trump indicated he had contacted Putin to explore such a summit, suggesting a subsequent trilateral meeting including himself. While Moscow acknowledged the discussions, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov remained cautious, noting it was “worthwhile” to consider raising the level of delegates in negotiations. Zelensky has long sought a face-to-face with Putin, partly to test Russia’s commitment to peace, though Moscow has repeatedly resisted the idea.
Tensions emerged over the issue of a ceasefire. Trump questioned whether an immediate halt to fighting was necessary before negotiations could begin, a stance at odds with Ukrainian priorities. European leaders, particularly German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, pushed back strongly, insisting that future meetings must be preceded by a ceasefire to protect Ukraine and maintain broader European security. Zelensky did not press the ceasefire issue publicly during Monday’s talks.
Security guarantees also featured prominently. Trump assured Zelensky that the US would provide protection for Ukraine in any peace agreement, though specifics remained unclear. He hinted that American forces could play a role while emphasizing Europe as the “first line of defense.” Zelensky confirmed a $90 billion arms deal with the US, including aviation and anti-missile systems, and noted plans for the US to purchase Ukrainian drones to support domestic production. He expects the security guarantees to be formalized within 10 days.
Zelensky employed a notably conciliatory approach, departing from his previous more confrontational visit. He donned a dark suit, offered multiple expressions of gratitude, and delivered a letter from Ukraine’s First Lady to Melania Trump. European leaders similarly praised Trump’s leadership, though they underscored the ongoing risks of Russian aggression to the continent.
Despite the optimistic rhetoric, no concrete commitments emerged from the meeting, leaving the road to a ceasefire and a lasting peace deal uncertain.
