by Our Correspondent in Washington DC
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday expressed support for a proposed trilateral meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling a potential new effort to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Speaking alongside Trump in the Oval Office ahead of a series of meetings, Zelensky described the idea as “a good idea,” indicating his willingness to explore direct dialogue with both leaders.
Trump, for his part, emphasized continued U.S. support for Ukraine, saying, “We will give them very good protection, very good security.” He also suggested that a formal ceasefire may not be required as a precondition for peace—a stance that contrasts with Zelensky and several Western European leaders, who have consistently stated that peace is impossible without a ceasefire first.
Zelensky and a delegation of Western European leaders are meeting with Trump and his team at the White House to discuss potential pathways to resolve the Ukraine conflict. The discussions come shortly after Trump’s historic summit with Putin in Alaska last Friday, which both sides described as “warm” and “constructive.”
Zelensky’s previous visit to the White House ended awkwardly, with tensions arising over perceived disrespect and a reminder from Trump that “he does not hold the cards.” This time, Zelensky appeared more subdued, arriving in a dark suit but notably without a tie.
