Key Takeaways from Trump–Zelensky White House Meeting

• Arrival and Welcome
• President Donald Trump received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House ahead of the U.S.-EU-Ukraine summit.
• Trump called it “an honor” to have Zelensky in Washington.
• Trump’s Statements
• Claimed “significant progress” had been made after his recent meeting with Vladimir Putin.
• Stressed that both Putin and Zelensky want the war to end.
• Expected “a good outcome” and said there was “a chance to end the war.”
• Declared U.S. commitment to work with Europe, making it Ukraine’s “first line of defense,” with Washington participating directly in security guarantees.
• Emphasized that peace must be long-term, not temporary.
• Openly rejected the idea of a simple ceasefire, instead pointing to a potential deal that could bring lasting peace.
• Pledged to provide Ukraine with “strong protection and good security.”
• Zelensky’s Statements
• Thanked President Trump for his efforts to “stop the killing.”
• Expressed readiness for a trilateral meeting involving the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia.
• Stated Ukraine is open to holding elections once security and peace are ensured.
• Highlighted that Ukraine now has the ability to purchase U.S. weapons.
• Stressed the importance of security guarantees to rearm the Ukrainian military and ensure long-term stability.
• Peace Prospects
• Trump and Zelensky both acknowledged momentum in talks.
• Trump: “We want to end the war in a way that serves everyone’s interest.”
• Trump suggested it may be possible to reach a peace agreement while fighting is still ongoing.