Trump returns from Alaska after talks with Putin as Zelensky plans Washington visit. [Photo: Getty Images]
President Donald Trump is back in Washington after a whirlwind trip that failed to produce a deal on Ukraine. His meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin ended with vague statements of progress but no concrete outcome.
Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, quickly confirmed he will travel to Washington on Monday. He said he wants to “discuss all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war.” Trump’s return highlights a moment of high stakes for the White House, NATO, and Europe.
Zelensky spoke directly with Trump after the Putin meeting. According to Kyiv, the conversation was long and substantive. Trump briefed him on his talks with Putin. Soon after, European leaders joined the call.
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France, Germany, Britain, Italy, Finland, and Poland were all on the line. NATO and the European Commission chiefs also took part. Zelensky made it clear he is not waiting for Moscow. He is moving the conversation to Washington to ensure Ukraine’s voice remains central.
Trump’s calls during his return flight underscored how the Ukraine war has become a wider test for NATO. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump spent most of the flight back from Alaska on the phone with NATO leaders.
The alliance is looking for clarity. The lack of a breakthrough with Putin raises concerns in Europe. NATO leaders now want to hear how Trump plans to keep unity intact.
The president’s return flight itself told a story. It was quiet, almost subdued, with Fox News clips of Trump’s Sean Hannity interview filling the cabin screens.
Staff noted he remained glued to phone calls. Trump is under pressure, which is reflected in this combination of a quiet environment and ongoing diplomacy.
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European capitals see risk in the vague signals from the Putin meeting. Leaders in Paris, Berlin, and London fear that delay may embolden Russia. At the same time, they see Washington as the anchor of their strategy.
That is why so many top leaders joined Zelensky’s call with Trump. Their goal is to prevent Moscow from exploiting divisions and to ensure that Ukraine gets firm backing.
Trump’s return without a deal puts the spotlight on his next steps. Zelensky’s visit to Washington could shape the course of the war effort.
NATO unity is at stake, and allies want more than vague words. As Zelensky arrives, pressure will grow on Trump to turn phone diplomacy into action.
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