Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky came to Washington late Sunday, stressing the importance of a quick and durable solution to the long-running war with Russia. “We all have a strong interest in finishing this war as soon as possible and reliably,” Zelensky wrote on social media ahead of his high-stakes meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday.
The meeting occurs at a moment when diplomatic action is gaining momentum, with both Ukraine and its pro-European allies resolved to prevent any negotiated settlement seen as benefiting Moscow.
Trump’s Altered Stand on Peace Talks
President Trump has changed his tone in recent days, hinting at momentum towards a potential peace framework. In a message on his Truth Social platform, he announced, “BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA. STAY TUNED!” without going any further. His Russian envoy, Steve Witkoff, disclosed that Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin had talked about “robust security guarantees” for Ukraine during their recent Alaska summit.
But Zelensky signaled in Brussels at the weekend that Kyiv would not sign up for Russian-backed assurances, highlighting the significance of reliable international security guarantees.
White House Schedule for Monday’s Meetings
As per a press guidance released by the White House, the following schedule has been finalized (all timings IST):
- 9:30 PM – European leaders arrive at the White House.
- 10:30 PM – Trump to welcome Ukrainian President Zelensky at a stakeout point.
- 10:45 PM – Trump and Zelensky to meet bilaterally.
- 12:30 AM (Tuesday) – Trump to have a multilateral with European leaders.
These meetings are likely to discuss Ukraine’s future security, possible peace talks, and the wider effect on European stability.
European Leaders Join in Solidarity
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she would attend the White House talks as a request from Zelensky. “At President Zelenskyy’s request, I will participate tomorrow in the meeting of President Trump and other European leaders in the White House,” she tweeted on X.
French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte have also confirmed their attendance. Their presence signals Europe’s unified stance against a settlement that could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty or long-term security.
High-Stakes Diplomatic Moment
For Kyiv, the gathering represents both opportunity and risk. While there is hope that Trump’s engagement could unlock progress, there is also concern that Washington may seek a compromise that forces territorial concessions.
The White House multilateral negotiations can be the determining factor in deciding Ukraine’s future and Europe’s overall security framework. For the moment, all attention continues to be on Washington as global leaders gather to decide whether this is the moment of turning toward peace or another diplomatic impasse.
