🔴 LIVE Updates | Trump Meets Zelensky | “Best Meeting Ever”

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky is addressing reporters outside the White House following his talks with Donald Trump and European leaders. He described the meeting with Trump as the best so far, noting that it was a “warm” session without the arguments seen in previous visits. Zelensky showed Trump maps of the battlefield, explaining who controls which areas, and thanked the European leaders for being on the same page. Key topics included security guarantees for Ukraine, which Zelensky called a “starting point for ending the war.” He confirmed the US will be among the countries providing these guarantees. Zelensky also said Trump supports a...

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has just left the White House in a long convoy of black security vehicles, following his meetings with Donald Trump and European leaders.

The White House press office has announced a “travel/photo lid” — meaning no further official statements are expected tonight from Washington.

But the night isn’t over: the German and Finnish embassies have confirmed media briefings for their own press, and there remains a chance we’ll hear from Zelensky himself and possibly UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, before the day concludes.

“At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting… between President Putin and President Zelenskyy,” Trump wrote, adding this would be followed by a “Trilat” including himself. He also claimed security guarantees for Ukraine were discussed, mainly from European nations with US coordination. The Kremlin also confirmed the 40-minute call but offered a more cautious version. Putin’s aide Yuri Ushakov called the exchange “frank” and “fairly constructive,” saying it focused only on “the possibility of raising the level of representatives” in Russia–Ukraine talks. That’s far narrower than Trump’s headline-grabbing claim of a possible Putin–Zelensky–Trump...

The Kremlin has confirmed that President Trump spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the phone for about 40 minutes in the middle of his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders at the White House. Russian media quoted a Kremlin spokesperson confirming the call took place. As we’ve been reporting, several international outlets had earlier cited unnamed sources saying the conversation happened, though it was widely expected Trump would wait until after the day’s meetings. For now, no details have emerged on what was discussed. Meanwhile, talks in Washington between Trump, Zelensky, and the European leaders are still ongoing....

Before the European leaders sat down with President Trump in the East Room, a hot mic picked up an exchange between Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron.

“I think he wants to make a deal. I think he wants to make a deal for me. You understand that? As crazy as that sounds,” Trump was heard telling Macron — apparently referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The White House has not responded to questions about the remark, which came shortly before the high-level talks began.

US and German media are reporting that President Donald Trump paused his meeting with President Zelensky and European leaders to place a call to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump had earlier said he planned to call Putin after the meeting, adding that the two had already communicated indirectly earlier in the day. But according to multiple outlets citing unnamed sources familiar with the talks, the call took place while negotiations were still underway inside the White House.

The White House has not commented on these reports.

Things have gone quiet at the White House. The meeting between President Donald Trump and European leaders has now ended, with the entire session held behind closed doors. No details have emerged yet on what was discussed, and it remains unclear if any formal announcements will follow. Meanwhile, sources in the Ukrainian delegation tell the BBC that Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky remain inside the building for additional talks — “possibly in a different format.” Those same sources add that Zelensky’s previously scheduled Fox News interview has been cancelled. The world now waits for any signal of progress, as speculation mounts over...

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the table, saying the leaders can make “real progress” to end the war in Ukraine, particularly regarding security guarantees.

He described a trilateral meeting as a “sensible next step” and said that, combined with security guarantees, it could represent a “historic” step forward. The public session has now concluded. Trump said discussions will continue in the East Room before returning to the Oval Office for further talks.

A few reporters shouted questions, but none were answered. A full round-up of all statements and developments will be provided shortly.

Trump handed the floor to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who called today’s meeting “extremely helpful” but emphasized the need for a ceasefire sooner rather than later. Merz said: “To be honest, we all would like to see a ceasefire, the latest from the next meeting on.” He added that he “can’t imagine” a trilateral meeting taking place without a ceasefire and urged Trump to pressure Russia to agree. Trump replied that in the six wars he claims to have settled, none ended with a ceasefire first. Next, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke on security guarantees, noting they concern the security of the...

President Zelensky described his Oval Office meeting with Trump as “constructive, specific” and a “very good conversation.” He repeatedly thanked Trump for meeting with him. Zelensky confirmed that Trump is working to organize a trilateral meeting with Putin, and said Ukraine would be happy if Trump attended. He also shared that he showed Trump “a lot of details” on a battlefield map. On potential prisoner exchanges, Trump said: “I know that there is over a thousand prisoners and I know they are going to release them. Maybe they are going to release them very soon — like immediately.” Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz...

While speaking with European leaders, Trump said he would prefer an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine but questioned whether it is strictly necessary. He emphasized his goal of arranging a trilateral meeting with Zelensky and Putin, adding that he has a feeling they will “work something out.” Trump stressed that any final decision ultimately rests with Zelensky and the Ukrainian people, in agreement with Putin. “If we can have a good meeting,” Trump said, he will schedule a meeting with Putin and offered to attend if requested. Trump remarked: “All of us would obviously prefer an immediate ceasefire while we work on a lasting...

Trump said that Friday’s Alaska summit with Putin reinforced his belief that peace is “within reach.” He described a “significant step”, with Putin agreeing that Russia would accept security guarantees for Ukraine. Trump said this is one of the “key points” under consideration during the meeting, noting that discussions will focus on “who will do what, essentially.” Trump expressed optimism that the group could reach an agreement to deter future aggression against Ukraine. He added: “I think the European nations are going to take a lot of the burden. We’re going to help them.” The meeting will also cover “possible exchanges of territory,”...

President Trump thanked the European leaders present, saying it is an honour to have them at the White House and describing the day as very successful.

Regarding the war in Ukraine, he said: “We want to stop the killing and get this settled.” He added that his discussions with Zelensky “covered a lot of territory”.

Trump noted that he has spoken indirectly to Putin today and plans to call again after the meetings. He confirmed that a trilateral meeting could follow, aiming to “get it finished and put this to sleep”, referring to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The multilateral meeting between Trump and European leaders has just started at the White House.

Before the talks, Trump posed for a “family photo” with the assembled leaders. Those present include:

• President Zelensky

• UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer

• French President Emmanuel Macron

• Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

• Finnish President Alexander Stubb

• European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen

The meeting marks the next phase of today’s summit, focusing on coordinated efforts to support Ukraine and explore paths toward ending the war.

The Trump-Zelensky meeting today sounded cautiously optimistic, a far cry from the heated Oval Office exchange last time. A few concrete details emerged, particularly Trump’s plans to speak with Putin today and the suggestion that a future trilateral meeting could happen — though timing and location remain uncertain. More notable, however, are the details we didn’t hear: There is still no clarity on what U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine would actually look like. Trump hinted at possible military support, maybe even troops, but specifics remain vague. There was little discussion about post-war territorial arrangements. Trump has said Ukraine cannot reclaim some lost territories, including...

It has been a scheduled day of high-stakes meetings, and the it is far from over. Trump is expected to meet with European leaders in the White House state dining room starting at 14:15 ET (19:15 BST). This session will be closed to the press. Following that, the leaders will gather with Trump for a photo at around 14:30 ET (19:30 BST). Updates and pictures will be provided as they become available. A multilateral meeting between Trump and his European counterparts is expected at 15:00 ET (20:00 BST), which will be streamed live. Finally, President Zelensky will hold a press conference at 16:00 ET (21:00...

Asked whether any part of his recent discussion with Putin left him disappointed, Trump said he “just spoke” to the Russian leader indirectly and plans a phone call “right after” his meetings today. Trump noted a trilateral meeting with Putin may or may not take place. If it does not, he said the fighting in Ukraine will continue. If it does, he suggested there is a “good chance of maybe ending it.” He added: “He’s expecting my call when we’re finished with this meeting.” After these remarks, Trump thanked the press, and reporters were ushered out of the Oval Office. Meanwhile, back in...

Amid the serious wartime talks, a lighthearted moment emerged when the issue of Zelensky’s attire came up. Brian Glenn, the reporter who previously asked about Zelensky’s suit in February, commented again. This time, the Ukrainian president was dressed in a dark suit instead of his usual military-style outfit. Zelensky joked: “You’re wearing the same suit [as last time],” prompting laughter from reporters and staffers. Trump added that he told Zelensky he looks good — a small but meaningful gesture given the decorum-sensitive nature of the Oval Office. The conversation quickly returned to serious matters. When asked what Ukraine needs from the U.S....

A reporter asked Trump whether there would be severe consequences if a ceasefire is not reached. He replied: “I don’t think you need a ceasefire.” He added it “might be good to have”, but said strategically, one side or the other might not want it. This marks a shift from Trump’s position before his meeting with Putin last week, when he had called for a rapid ceasefire and threatened economic sanctions on Russia if one was not agreed. Zelensky has so far spoken sparingly, perhaps mindful that his position differs from Trump’s. When asked about security guarantees and NATO-style protection for Ukraine,...

Trump was asked whether the U.S. would send “American peacekeepers” to Ukraine to secure a deal. He responded: “We’re gonna work with Ukraine, we’re gonna work with everybody” to ensure any peace is “very long term.” The president said the U.S. will cooperate with both Russia and Ukraine to “make sure it works,” adding: “If we can get to peace I know it’s going to work. I have no doubt about it.” Asked about Putin’s perspective on the war, Trump reiterated that the conflict will end, though he was unsure when. He emphasized that both Zelensky and Putin want the war to...

A reporter asked Trump about his previous comments that Zelensky could end the war immediately if he wanted. Trump replied that he believes this is true and added that a trilateral meeting between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine could create a “good chance” to end the conflict. When Zelensky was asked about potentially ceding territory, he emphasized: “We need to stop the war, to stop Russia.” He praised the strength of Ukrainians and expressed support for Trump’s diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. Zelensky also confirmed he wants a trilateral meeting with Trump and Putin. Trump continued, noting that “a lot of...

President Zelensky expressed gratitude to Trump for his invitation and “personal efforts” to help end the war.

He also thanked First Lady Melania Trump for writing a letter to Putin regarding Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.

In a light-hearted moment, Zelensky handed Trump a letter from Olena Zelenska, Ukraine’s First Lady, clarifying, “It’s not to you, it’s to your wife.” Both leaders laughed before continuing the discussion.

President Trump and President Zelensky are now seated together in the Oval Office, speaking to the press. Trump thanked Zelensky for coming to the U.S. and said that “progress is being made” toward ending the war between Russia and Ukraine. He also noted that he had a “very good” meeting with Putin recently and suggested there is “a good possibility that something could come out of it.” The U.S. president highlighted that seven world leaders are in Washington today and confirmed he will meet with them after his talks with Zelensky, emphasizing the broader international context of today’s summit. (Image Credits: Reuters)...

As high-level talks get underway at the White House, Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement. The statement notably avoids directly criticizing the U.S., reflecting a more conciliatory stance following Putin’s meeting with Trump last week, but it sharply targets the British government. The Kremlin accuses the UK of being “obsessed with the desire to constantly raise the stakes” in Ukraine and claims London is pushing NATO partners “to a dangerous brink, beyond which a new global conflict is not far away.” Regarding the ongoing summit, the statement reiterates Moscow’s categorical rejection of any plan that would see NATO troops...

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived at the White House and was personally greeted by President Donald Trump.

The two leaders shook hands before Trump escorted Zelensky inside for their high-stakes talks on ending the war with Russia. As they paused at the door, reporters shouted questions at Trump, asking, “What is your message to the Ukrainian people?”

Trump replied briefly: “We love them,” before posing for photos with Zelensky and heading inside.

(Image Credits: BBC)

French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived at the White House. Unlike some of his European colleagues who met earlier at the Ukrainian embassy, Macron came directly from Washington Dulles International Airport, where he landed just minutes ago.

With Macron’s arrival, the only remaining guest for this landmark summit is President Volodymyr Zelensky, expected to join the gathering shortly.

(Image Credits: BBC)

President of Finland Alexander Stubb has arrived at the White House. Like the other leaders, he stepped out of his car, shook hands with U.S. chief of protocol Monica Crowley, and headed inside.

With Stubb’s arrival, nearly all European leaders are now in place. Only French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz are yet to arrive, with President Zelensky expected to join them within the hour.

(Image Credits: BBC)

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is next to arrive at the White House. She shook hands and exchanged a few words with U.S. chief of protocol Monica Crowley, who then escorted her into the building.

(Image Credits: BBC)

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has just arrived at the White House. He smiled as he stepped out of his vehicle and was greeted before being escorted inside, joining other European leaders ahead of the summit with Trump and Zelensky.

(Image Credits: BBC)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has arrived at the White House, stepping out of her car to be welcomed by U.S. chief of protocol Monica Crowley, who told her it was “good to see you again.”

The two shook hands before walking together toward the entrance, as more European leaders make their way in for today’s summit.

(Image Credits: BBC)

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has become the first European leader to arrive at the White House this morning. He was greeted by Monica Crowley, the U.S. chief of protocol, before heading inside.

Other European leaders are expected to follow shortly as the arrivals continue ahead of the high-stakes summit with President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. 

(Image Credits: BBC)

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, in Washington for today’s White House summit, said the West must serve as a tool to “build peace and guarantee justice.”

Speaking in Italian ahead of the meeting, Meloni stressed she was pleased that the NATO-like security guarantee, originally floated by Italy — is now central to the talks.

“We are on the side of Ukraine, we support the efforts of the President of the United States,” she told reporters. “I think that the work we will do today will be, from this point of view, important work.”

(Image Credits: Reuters)

The other European leaders — UK’s Keir Starmer, Germany’s Friedrich Merz, and France’s Emmanuel Macron — are already at the White House, waiting for President Zelensky’s arrival. Trump is expected to greet the Ukrainian leader personally at the West Wing entrance. Cameras will be allowed inside briefly as the two presidents meet in the Oval Office, setting up another high-profile and high-pressure moment. For Zelensky, it’s the first time he has been in the same room with Trump since the U.S. president publicly berated him back in February. European officials fear the Alaska summit with Putin looms heavily over today’s talks. The...

Photos of Volodymyr Zelensky’s pre-dawn arrival in Washington show a far less ceremonial welcome than the one extended to Vladimir Putin just days ago. On Friday, Trump personally greeted the Russian leader in Alaska with a red-carpet reception and fighter jet flyover — a spectacle broadcast live around the world. By contrast, Zelensky’s motorcade slipped quietly from the airport without fanfare. Still, the Ukrainian president is likely less concerned with the optics than with the substance of today’s White House talks. With Trump openly praising his summit with Putin, Zelensky faces perhaps the most important meeting of his political career — one...

Zelensky’s Warning: Ahead of the summit, Zelensky accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking to “humiliate diplomatic efforts,” after 10 people were killed in fresh Russian strikes overnight. Trump’s Position: The U.S. President has ruled out Ukraine joining NATO and dismissed Kyiv’s hopes of reclaiming Crimea, which Russia illegally annexed in 2014. Observers say these are worrying signs for Ukraine’s long-term goals. Security Guarantees: Trump’s special envoy revealed on Sunday that Putin has agreed in principle to “robust” security guarantees for Ukraine — potentially involving a NATO-style defence pact, though Moscow has yet to confirm. European Pressure: Leaders from the UK, Germany, and...