URGENT UPDATE: A high-stakes meeting between Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelensky, and seven leading European leaders took place yesterday at the White House, marking a significant diplomatic effort to broker peace with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The gathering is being hailed as a turning point in the ongoing conflict, as Trump and Zelensky engaged in private talks before being joined by prominent figures including Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron. This coalition aims to establish a framework for security guarantees for Ukraine and discuss potential territory exchanges.
A key outcome of the meeting is the announcement of the first face-to-face discussions between Zelensky and Putin since the war began in February 2022. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who participated in the talks, confirmed that this historic sit-down is expected to occur within the next two weeks.
“At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting, at a location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelensky,” Trump stated on Truth Social.
While this potential meeting is viewed positively by European allies, skepticism remains regarding Putin’s willingness to engage. Some leaders caution that Ukraine and the US should remain wary of any commitments from the Kremlin.
In a stark contrast to his previous visit, where tensions ran high, Zelensky appeared in a tailored suit, symbolizing his commitment to diplomacy. His charm offensive included multiple expressions of gratitude toward Trump and even a mention of Melania Trump for her support regarding abducted Ukrainian children.
The meeting also focused on security guarantees for Ukraine. Trump pledged US involvement, emphasizing that while American troops may not be deployed, there will be a commitment to support European nations in their security efforts. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed these assurances, likening them to Article Five-like security guarantees.
However, discussions around a ceasefire remain contentious. Trump, who had previously advocated for immediate ceasefires, suggested that a peace framework could be achieved without one, sparking debate among leaders. He stated, “I don’t think you need a ceasefire… I can also understand, strategically, why one country or the other wouldn’t want it.”
The issue of potential territory exchanges was also brought to the forefront. Trump noted the necessity for negotiations regarding disputed areas, particularly the eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions, which Russia seeks control over as a condition for peace.
As the world watches, the next steps in this diplomatic saga could reshape the future of Ukraine and its relations with Russia. The international community will be closely monitoring the outcomes of the impending Putin-Zelensky meeting, as hopes for a resolution hang in the balance.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops, and share your thoughts on the potential impact of these discussions.
