Following a summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin that left the world waiting for peace, Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelenskyy prepared for a meeting with Trump in Washington. The stage is set to discuss the future of the war, NATO relations, and Ukraine’s security.
Trump declared on social media that Zelenskyy has the power to end the conflict quickly by making difficult decisions, such as abandoning NATO ambitions and accepting Russia’s claim to Crimea—former U.S. President Obama’s “gift,” as Trump put it.
Zelenskyy’s response called for a quick yet lasting peace, noting past failures such as the forced ceding of Crimea and ineffective security guarantees from 1994 when Ukraine surrendered its nuclear arsenal. He said vague promises are no longer enough: Ukraine requires guaranteed protections.
The president highlighted successful defense operations in contested regions and expressed appreciation for international support, urging Russia to stop its invasion for good.
The upcoming talks in Washington carry high stakes, balancing immediate peace hopes and long-term security needs.
