Trump-Zelensky Meeting Live: US Pressures Ukraine to Surrender Crimea Before European Talks

High-Stakes Diplomacy: European Leaders Join Zelensky in Washington for Critical Talks with Trump

Top European leaders are making their way to Washington, DC, on Monday to join a high-stakes summit with U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. This meeting comes just days after Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, raising concerns about the direction of peace negotiations.

Zelensky is returning to the White House nearly six months after being famously booted from the Oval Office in February. The U.S. president will meet Zelensky at 1:15 p.m. (5:15 p.m. GMT), followed by a multilateral meeting with European leaders at 3 p.m. This gathering marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, as key decisions could shape the future of the region.

Trump’s Position on Peace Talks

Following his meeting with Putin, Trump has reiterated Moscow’s position, urging Zelensky to strike a peace agreement without Crimea and NATO membership instead of an immediate ceasefire. “President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight,” Trump said on Truth Social. “No getting back Obama given Crimea... and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!”

This stance has drawn criticism from both Ukrainian officials and European allies, who believe that any peace deal must include guarantees for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. Trump’s comments have also raised questions about his commitment to supporting Ukraine, especially after previously advocating for a ceasefire.

Recent Attacks and Escalating Tensions

The timing of the summit is particularly sensitive, as Russia launched a deadly attack overnight, killing at least 10 people in Ukraine. Kyiv described the assault as “demonstrative and cynical.” In Kharkiv, two children were among seven dead, while three more were killed and 20 injured in Zaporizhzhia. These attacks have intensified pressure on Zelensky to secure stronger security guarantees from the U.S. and its allies.

Putin agreed during his meeting with Trump to let the U.S. and its European allies offer Ukraine security guarantees, according to U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. This development could be a game-changer, as it opens the door for potential Article 5-like protection, which would mean that an attack on Ukraine would be considered an attack on all NATO members.

European Solidarity and Strategic Concerns

European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, are expected to attend the talks. Their presence underscores the importance of maintaining unity in supporting Ukraine and ensuring that any peace agreement includes Kyiv’s participation.

The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasized that international borders cannot be changed by force and that any territorial discussions must involve Ukraine. She also called for a trilateral meeting between Trump, Putin, and Zelensky to ensure that Ukraine has a seat at the table.

The Role of NATO and Security Guarantees

One of the key topics of discussion will be the role of NATO and the possibility of Ukraine joining the alliance. However, Trump has consistently ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine, citing concerns over escalating tensions with Russia. Instead, he has pushed for a peace deal that does not include Crimea, a move that has been widely criticized by Ukrainian officials.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has accused Hungary of being too soft on Russia, following an attack on a Russian crude oil pipeline leading to the country. “Peter, it is Russia, not Ukraine, who began this war and refuses to end it,” Sybiha said, adding that Hungary should take its complaints directly to Moscow.

The Human Cost of the Conflict

The human toll of the war continues to rise, with recent attacks in Kharkiv and Sumy causing significant casualties. A toddler and a 16-year-old boy were among those killed in Kharkiv, while six children were injured in the attack. The city, located near the Russian border, has been a frequent target of drone and missile strikes throughout the war.

In addition to the loss of life, the psychological impact on civilians is profound. Zelensky has condemned the attacks as “demonstrative and cynical,” accusing Russia of using the violence to maintain pressure on Ukraine and Europe.

Looking Ahead

As the summit approaches, the stakes could not be higher. European leaders are determined to ensure that Ukraine’s interests are protected, while Trump’s position remains a source of uncertainty. The outcome of these talks could determine the future of the conflict and the long-term security of Ukraine.

With the world watching closely, the White House meeting represents a critical opportunity to find a path toward lasting peace. However, with so much at stake, the road ahead remains uncertain.