URGENT UPDATE: President Donald Trump claimed Sunday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy can end the ongoing war with Russia “almost immediately” as preparations ramp up for a significant White House meeting on Monday. This summit is poised to bring together Zelenskyy and multiple European leaders to discuss pressing peace negotiations amid the ongoing conflict.
Trump’s bold assertion came just hours before the high-stakes gathering in Washington, D.C., scheduled for 1 p.m. ET. The President emphasized that the meeting could be pivotal in resolving the crisis that has gripped Ukraine since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022. “Big day at the White House tomorrow,” Trump tweeted, hinting at the gravity of the discussions ahead.
The backdrop to this urgent meeting includes Trump’s recent engagement with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where he has shifted his demands from an immediate ceasefire to pressuring Kyiv to consider territorial compromises. Trump stated plainly that Ukraine would not regain Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014, and reiterated that NATO membership for Ukraine is off the table.
Zelenskyy arrived in Washington on Sunday night and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet with Trump. “We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably,” he posted on social media, emphasizing the need for lasting peace. He further articulated that Ukrainians are fighting for their land and independence and stressed that Russia must cease its aggression.
The summit will not only focus on Ukraine’s security but will also feature top European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, Friedrich Merz, Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, and others. Trump is set to greet Zelenskyy outside the West Wing at 1 p.m. ET, followed by a bilateral meeting. A photo opportunity with European leaders is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. ET, with a multilateral meeting at 3 p.m. ET.
Amid these developments, Zelenskyy and European leaders have unified in their stance that a ceasefire must precede any peace negotiations. French President Emmanuel Macron noted the seriousness of this moment for European security, stating, “If we are weak today with Russia, we prepare the wars of tomorrow.”
Tensions remain high as Russia has continued its military aggression, launching 140 drones against Ukraine overnight, resulting in casualties, including the deaths of at least seven individuals from a drone strike in Kharkiv. The ongoing violence underscores the urgency of the discussions taking place at the White House.
The outcome of Monday’s summit will be critical, as both Zelenskyy and Trump face pressure to navigate complex territorial and security discussions. With Ukraine’s constitution mandating a national referendum for any border changes, any proposals for concessions will spark intense debate within Ukraine.
As the world watches, the stakes have never been higher. Will Zelenskyy accept Trump’s terms, or will the conflict continue to escalate? This developing story promises to shape the future of Ukraine and its relationship with both Russia and the West. Stay tuned for updates.
