Trump hosts Ukraine peace talks amid uncertainty over next steps

WASHINGTON/KYIV/MOSCOW: A hastily arranged summit at the White House on Monday brought together US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and seven European leaders to discuss a possible path to end Russia’s war in Ukraine.

While the tone was more cordial than past meetings, questions remained over what, if anything, had changed.

Also read: Trump tells Zelensky US would help with Ukraine’s security in peace deal

The event was closely watched by diplomats and media, with over 100 journalists on site. Zelensky, previously criticized for his informal attire and blunt tone, arrived in what observers described as a more formal outfit. His remarks were filled with expressions of gratitude – eight directed toward Trump alone. Trump, in turn, praised Zelensky’s efforts and appearance.

Still, despite the more measured atmosphere, the talks did not result in any clear breakthroughs. No party publicly shifted its position on key issues such as territorial control, sanctions, or long-term security guarantees.

Trump did, however, say he would attempt to arrange a direct meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Later that day, the Kremlin confirmed that Trump and Putin had held a 40-minute phone call in which they discussed “raising the level of representatives” involved in future Ukraine talks. The term was not defined, but was seen as a possible step toward high-level bilateral or trilateral discussions.

European leaders present at the White House kept public remarks vague, largely supporting Trump’s role and avoiding open disagreements. One exception came from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who reiterated the need for a ceasefire before any further talks. Trump, who had previously pushed for such a measure, appeared to downplay its necessity, citing past examples of progress without one.

Zelensky told reporters in Kyiv on Tuesday that he believed the US and its partners would finalise details of security guarantees within 10 days. These, he said, would likely be formalised in writing and involve a range of countries. He described the Washington meeting as his best yet with Trump and welcomed a clearer signal of American support.

However, the nature of that support remains unclear. Trump has not committed to sending US troops to Ukraine, but he has not ruled it out either. Instead, he has emphasised weapons sales and economic ties. Zelensky said the US package on the table includes air defense systems and aircraft, valued at approximately $90 billion. He also noted agreements for the US to purchase Ukrainian drones once exports resume.

Also read: Zelensky meets European leaders as Trump pushes for quick Ukraine Peace Deal

On potential direct talks with Russia, Zelensky said Ukraine is ready to meet in any format, but no date has been set. Territorial matters, he stated, would be handled directly between him and Putin.

The Kremlin, for its part, did not confirm a willingness to meet with Zelensky. Putin continues to view the Ukrainian president as lacking legitimacy, and Moscow insists that NATO troop presence in Ukraine remains unacceptable. Russia is also demanding territorial concessions that Ukraine currently rejects.