European leaders are set to join Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday. Attendees will include UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. This meeting follows Trump’s recent unsuccessful attempts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine during discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Previously, securing a ceasefire had been one of Trump’s key objectives before his meeting with Putin. However, following that meeting, Trump expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of ceasefires and suggested pursuing a direct peace agreement instead. European leaders have responded cautiously to this shift, as they have historically supported a ceasefire in Ukraine. Reports indicate that during the meeting, Putin proposed a peace framework contingent upon Ukraine withdrawing from the Donetsk region, while Russia would agree to freeze front lines in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.
Russia claims portions of the Donbas region, where it holds significant territory, and has previously annexed Crimea. Concerns have emerged among European officials that Trump may seek concessions from Zelensky based on the proposals discussed with Putin. Zelensky has consistently dismissed any notion of ceding territory, citing constitutional barriers and arguing that discussions should take place solely among the leaders of Ukraine and Russia.
Von der Leyen recently stated that any potential peace agreement must include security assurances for Ukraine. She emphasized that decisions regarding borders should involve Ukraine directly. Ahead of the White House meeting, Zelensky reiterated the need for a ceasefire and indicated that he aims to work towards a final agreement rapidly.
This meeting at the White House marks Zelensky’s first visit since a tense exchange with Trump earlier this year, which included sharp criticism of Ukraine’s gratitude towards U.S. support. Following that encounter, both leaders appeared to have reconciled during a brief meeting in April. Ukraine has also engaged in agreements that strengthen its economic ties with the U.S., including a minerals deal.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crm4ln2ekg1o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss