UPDATE: President Donald Trump has just declared that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy can end Russia’s brutal invasion “almost immediately,” ahead of a crucial White House meeting scheduled for 1 p.m. ET tomorrow. This urgent summit comes as tensions remain high following Trump’s recent discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.
In a social media post, Trump emphasized the importance of the upcoming meeting, which will see Zelenskyy joined by several European leaders, stating, “Big day at the White House tomorrow.” He further asserted that Ukraine will not regain Crimea, occupied by Russia since 2014, and reiterated that Ukraine will not be allowed to join NATO.
Zelenskyy arrived in Washington on Sunday night, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the ongoing conflict. He stated, “We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably,” highlighting the need for lasting peace amid Russia’s aggression. Zelenskyy underscored the importance of U.S. support, saying, “I hope that our joint strength with America, with our European friends, will force Russia into a real peace.”
The upcoming meeting is pivotal as European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, Friedrich Merz, Keir Starmer, and Emmanuel Macron, join Zelenskyy to discuss security guarantees and a potential ceasefire. Macron, addressing the gravity of the situation, stated that “if we are weak today with Russia, we prepare the wars of tomorrow.”
During the Alaska summit, Russia demanded that Ukraine cede its contested eastern regions in exchange for peace, prompting Trump to challenge Kyiv to “make the deal.” His comments stirred controversy, as he previously mischaracterized Ukraine as the aggressor in the conflict, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
The humanitarian toll of the ongoing conflict cannot be ignored. Reports indicate that over 140 drones and missiles were launched by Russia during the weekend, resulting in severe damage and at least seven casualties, including a child, in Kharkiv. Ukrainian officials reported that their air defenses managed to intercept 88 drones during these attacks.
The discussions at the White House are expected to focus on the nature of Western security guarantees for Ukraine, a topic that has sparked intense debate within the country. Ukrainian parliament member Oleksandr Mrezhko emphasized the need for a ceasefire and security assurances to prevent further violations by Russia, stating, “Territorial concessions are impossible.”
As tomorrow’s summit approaches, the world watches closely for any breakthroughs in this ongoing conflict. The outcome could significantly impact not only Ukraine’s territorial integrity but also the broader geopolitical landscape in Europe. The urgency of the situation underscores the necessity for immediate action and cooperation among allied nations to ensure lasting peace and security.
Stay tuned for live updates from the White House as this crucial meeting unfolds.