Last night at the White House, a series of significant meetings took place involving Volodymyr Zelensky, Donald Trump, and European leaders to discuss the war and security guarantees for Ukraine. British advisor Paul recommended Zelensky avoid disputes with Trump and focus on diplomacy. The Ukrainian side delivered a symbolic letter for Melania Trump as part of diplomatic gestures.
During the meeting, Trump and Zelensky also participated in phone talks with Vladimir Putin, during which a possible Zelensky-Putin meeting before the end of the month was discussed. Territorial issues remain pivotal, with Zelensky clearly stating Ukraine will not concede Donbas.
Trump presented a new peace plan, assigning Europe and the US different roles in supporting Ukraine. Security guarantees, including the potential deployment of Western troops, were debated, but this idea is opposed by Russia. Ukraine insists on concrete, not just written, guarantees.
Ukraine presented a $100 billion weapons contract proposal, underlining the gravity of the negotiations. European leaders and NATO representatives reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, while additional countries' participation in talks was discussed.
At the end of the meeting, Zelensky gifted Trump a Ukrainian golf club, while Trump responded with symbolic keys to the White House. Ukraine remains firm on achieving a just peace without territorial concessions, and the potential end of war is projected for autumn if agreements are reached.
The negotiation dynamics are positive, with key roles played by the US, EU, and direct leader diplomacy. Forthcoming meetings will determine if fair and lasting peace is attainable for Ukraine.
