Ukraine's Zelensky Seeks Leaders-Level Security Talks, Trump Involvement Expected

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for elevating discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine to the leadership level, emphasizing the involvement of U.S. President Donald Trump in these talks. Zelenskyy stressed the need for legally binding, NATO-like security commitments ratified by European parliaments to ensure Ukraine's protection and avoid past failures such as the 1994 Budapest Memorandum. He also highlighted Ukraine's expectation of a strong 19th package of EU sanctions against Russia as part of sustained pressure, given Russia's refusal to engage meaningfully in peace talks and ongoing military aggression. In coordination with European leaders from Poland, the Baltic states, and Denmark, Zelenskyy underscored the importance of a strong Ukrainian military supported by long-term funding and weapon supplies, as well as the need for increased economic pressure on Russia. The discussions reflect a strategic approach by Kyiv to secure international support and transparent frameworks for lasting peace amid continued Russian attacks. These initiatives come as European Union defense ministers have committed to training Ukrainian troops locally if a ceasefire is achieved, illustrating multinational efforts to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.