Washington, D.C.: On the eve of crucial discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and a large group of European leaders, U.S. President Donald Trump signaled the tough message he plans to deliver: Ukraine must make concessions if it wants the war with Russia to end.
In a social media post, Trump wrote that Zelensky “can end the war with Russia almost immediately” if he accepts two conditions — recognition of Russia’s control over Crimea and a commitment that Ukraine will never join NATO. Trump claimed that Crimea was “given away” under former President Barack Obama and suggested this reality cannot be reversed.
The statement underscores the delicate position facing Zelensky as he prepares for a high-profile meeting at the White House on Monday. The two demands Trump referenced align closely with Moscow’s longstanding terms for ending the conflict.
European officials, who will accompany Zelensky for the talks, have voiced unease that the meeting could turn into pressure on Kyiv to accept Russian terms. Leaders are also seeking clarity on what concessions, if any, Moscow might consider in return, and how Washington envisions providing long-term security guarantees to Ukraine.
Trump, meanwhile, highlighted the significance of the gathering, noting, “Big day at the White House tomorrow. Never had so many European Leaders at one time. My great honor to host them!!!”
The visiting delegation includes French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
With both Zelensky and European leaders heading into the talks, the White House summit is expected to set the tone for the next phase of diplomacy in the ongoing war.
