
Breakthrough in Ukraine Diplomacy
European leaders expressed satisfaction following a crucial Ukraine summit at the White House. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the talks as "the best meeting" he's ever had with US President Donald Trump, marking a significant improvement from their previous contentious encounters.
Path to Peace
President Trump announced he called Russian President Vladimir Putin immediately after the summit to arrange direct talks between Putin and Zelensky. "I contacted President Putin to prepare for a meeting between the two leaders," Trump stated on Truth Social. "This will be followed by trilateral discussions including myself." German Chancellor reported Trump paused the meeting for 40 minutes to make the call to Moscow.
Security Guarantees
NATO chief Mark Rutte hailed a "very successful day" as leaders reached consensus on security guarantees for Ukraine. European nations will take the lead in military support with the US playing a coordinating role. The proposed guarantees resemble NATO's Article 5 principle, treating an attack on Ukraine as an attack on all guarantor nations.
Challenges Ahead
Ceasefire Dilemma
Zelensky emphasized that negotiations require an immediate ceasefire, while Putin historically rejects pauses that might allow Ukrainian forces to regroup. Trump has previously wavered on this issue but now supports "an immediate ceasefire while working toward a peace agreement."
European Concerns
French President Macron questioned Putin's intentions, stating: "His ultimate goal is to conquer territory and weaken Ukraine." Finnish President Stubb called the Russian leader "untrustworthy," while German Chancellor Merz doubted Putin would actually meet with Zelensky.
Territorial Disputes
Zelensky revealed discussing Ukrainian territory maps with Trump, noting discrepancies in White House materials. NATO chief Rutte clarified territorial issues would only be addressed after security guarantees are established and during direct Ukraine-Russia talks.