Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appeared set to hold a long-awaited peace summit following rapid discussions in Washington between Donald Trump and European leaders on Ukraine’s security.
Hopes for progress rose after Trump revealed he had spoken with Putin, whom he recently met in Alaska, and began arranging a bilateral meeting with Zelensky. He confirmed both leaders agreed in principle.
This would mark the first direct meeting between the two leaders since Moscow’s invasion more than three years ago. Trump has repeatedly promised to deliver a swift end to the devastating war.
Zelensky told reporters outside the White House that he was “ready” for the summit, while Kremlin officials also signaled that Putin was open to direct talks, though no date was announced yet.
European leaders, including those from Germany, France, Italy, and NATO, joined the talks in Washington, stressing strong support for Kyiv. However, they also voiced concerns about Trump potentially pressuring Ukraine for concessions.
Security guarantees dominated discussions, with Trump saying European nations, coordinated with the US, would provide protection for Ukraine. Formal agreements are expected within days, though disagreements remain on issues like Crimea and Donbas.