In a historic diplomatic gesture, seven European leaders flew into Washington on Monday to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for a top-level summit with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House. The summit was convened at short notice amidst mounting fears that Trump’s recent advances towards Moscow would redefine the trajectory of the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
The meeting represents one of the most intense expressions of transatlantic unity since the conflict began, as capitals across Europe hustle to keep Kyiv from being pushed into a deal on Moscow’s terms.
The Leaders Attending
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
As the representative of Europe’s biggest economy, Merz has committed to increasing German defense expenditure to 3.5% of GDP by 2026. His attendance reflects Berlin’s alarm at Trump’s talks with Russia.
President Emmanuel Macron of France
Macron, who has had a tricky but friendly relationship with Trump, comes to Washington with the hope of keeping Europe together in support of Ukraine. His previous interactions with Trump have varied from ceremonial activities to harsh policy differences.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain
Though politicically at odds with Trump’s MAGA agenda, Starmer has become a bridge-builder. His February White House visit included a personal touch by King Charles designed to strengthen U.K.–U.S. relations.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
Meloni has politically aligned with Trump on immigration and cultural matters. Her presence serves to strengthen Trump’s negotiating position, but she is also likely to urge continuing Europe’s strong opposition to Russian aggression.
President Alexander Stubb of Finland
Stubb, from a front-line NATO nation with a direct border to Russia, is now one of Europe’s loudest voices for the security of Ukraine. His presence indicates the alarm in north Europe.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte
Rutte, who has developed a pragmatic friendship with Trump, has the force of NATO behind him. His skill at reconciling Trump’s skepticism of the alliance with demanding security needs will be keenly observed.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
First shunned by Trump in the early part of his presidency, Von der Leyen has since been able to get direct access to him. Her attendance indicates Brussels’ resolve to have a say in the direction of the negotiations.
A High-Stakes Meeting
European envoys characterize the urgency of this meeting as being equal to the frenetic diplomacy prior to the Iraq War. With Trump suggesting a potential peace deal that includes Ukrainian territorial concessions, European leaders are keen to put up a united front.
For Zelensky, having these leaders on board is a reassurance that Ukraine will not be alone at the negotiating table. For Trump, the summit provides a platform to demonstrate his negotiating prowess – but comes with higher stakes for Europe, which worries about being left on the sidelines in a deal that can redefine the continent’s security order.
