European, Ukrainian Leaders Meet Trump in Washington for Ukraine Conflict Talks

President Donald Trump hosted a significant meeting at the White House with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and key European leaders to discuss peace efforts amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The gathering, which included figures such as NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and others, aimed to coordinate strategies following Trump's recent summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. While Trump has suggested land concessions to end the war, Ukraine firmly rejects territorial compromises, emphasizing sovereignty and independence. European leaders support Ukraine's position, advocating for negotiations in a trilateral format involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia, and expressing readiness to deploy forces to secure Ukraine's territories once fighting stops. Poland notably did not have official representation at this meeting due to internal political disputes between its nationalist president and pro-European government officials. The talks reflect the complex dynamics and high stakes as Western allies seek a resolution that respects Ukraine's territorial integrity while addressing Russia's demands.