Trump meets Zelenskyy at the White House amid uncertainty over direct talks with Vladimir Putin. Image: The Guardian.
(The Post News) – President Donald Trump is pushing to revive peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, but doubts remain about whether they will happen. On Monday, Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders at the White House, just two days after his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. “I think President Putin will make peace. I think President Zelensky will make peace. We’ll see if they can get along,” Trump said.
Trump promised to help Europe create security guarantees for Ukraine and announced plans for direct talks between Zelenskyy and Putin. Moscow has not agreed to the meeting and insists it must shape any deal. Trump first promoted a three-way summit but later shifted to backing bilateral talks. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Zelenskyy and Putin must meet first. Russian officials have since played down the chances of a summit soon.
On security, Trump vowed “very good protection” for Ukraine. He suggested Russia could accept guarantees similar to NATO’s Article 5 pledge. Still, both he and Moscow oppose Ukraine joining NATO. Instead, Trump floated U.S. air support and stronger European coordination. NATO and U.S. defense officials started talks this week to explore a framework. Russia rejected the effort, warning that any deal without its input will fail.
Territory remains a key obstacle. Trump proposed land swaps along current frontlines; however, NATO leaders rejected any such plan. Zelenskyy has repeatedly rejected giving up land, citing Ukraine’s constitution.
Trump believes Putin may be “tired of it,” but he admits the outcome is uncertain. The next few weeks will reveal whether direct talks move forward—or stall again.
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