U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, prioritizing an immediate end to the protracted Russia-Ukraine war. Trump conveyed his optimism about facilitating peace in Europe, referencing his experience in resolving the Israel-Hamas conflict involving many international players. He presented this as evidence of his diplomatic capabilities.
Trump shared insights from his conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, asserting that Putin also desires a conclusion to the conflict that has resulted in substantial casualties. A second summit between Trump and Putin is anticipated in Hungary shortly. Post-meeting, Trump took to Truth Social to describe his exchange with Zelenskyy as “very interesting and cordial.” He urged Zelenskyy to “stop the killing and make a deal” with Putin, suggesting a cessation of fighting and a mutual claim of victory to prevent further loss of life and drain on resources. He also commented that the war would have been avoided during his term.
Furthermore, Trump signaled hesitation regarding the sale of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, a point of contention that had previously drawn concern from Russia. He explained his responsibility to ensure the United States’ own defense capabilities are robust. “We would much rather have the war be over to be honest,” Trump remarked, emphasizing a preference for de-escalation. President Zelenskyy, speaking after the meeting, characterized his stance on Putin as a necessary response to aggression, stating, “It is not about someone just hating someone else. Although, undoubtedly, we hate the enemy. Undoubtedly.”