Vitaliy Portnikov summarizes the key points from the Washington meetings, where US and Ukrainian Presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky met with European leaders. The talks came amid uncertainty after the US-Russia summit and European concern over consequences for Ukraine.
Portnikov notes that no final agreements were reached. Most participants—including European leaders—acted with restraint, aiming to avoid public conflict with Trump so as not to risk military and financial support for Ukraine. After meeting with Putin, Trump tried to shift some responsibility for the peace process onto Zelensky and Europe, warning that in the absence of an agreement, US aid could be reconsidered.
Security questions remain problematic: Europe proposes alternative guarantees outside NATO, but Russia categorically rejects any Alliance military presence in Ukraine and does not show willingness to stop its aggression. Putin’s position remains tough, and his real motives are unclear to other participants.
Portnikov points out that talk of possible “territorial exchanges” does not reflect reality: Ukraine does not control the occupied territories, and Russia is unwilling to officially make concessions. The issues of a ceasefire or long-term peace remain unresolved, while Trump avoids specific promises on new aid, calling only for an end to the fighting.
In conclusion, the key to peace remains in the Kremlin's hands, with the US and EU position determining only the level of support for Ukraine. Despite talks about NATO Article 5–style guarantees, Russia remains categorically opposed. European leaders and Zelensky remain hostage to the situation, displaying restraint and seeking to maintain US support.
Thus, the Washington negotiations have not changed the war’s course or the main positions of the parties. Ukraine remains dependent on Western help, while prospects for a peace settlement are still unclear.
