Trump and Zelensky to Meet in Paris

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are set to meet in Paris on September 4, continuing a series of high-level diplomatic engagements aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The meeting, which will also include key European leaders, is a direct follow-up to previous discussions in Washington and is seen as a pivotal moment in the search for a peace settlement. The two leaders are expected to tackle some of the most difficult and contentious issues, including the future of Russian-occupied territories and the nature of post-conflict security guarantees for Ukraine.
The meeting is being held at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, who is hosting a gathering of European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. According to reports in the Financial Times, the agenda will center on solidifying a “coalition of the willing” to provide robust security guarantees for Ukraine, with “coordination” from the United States. This model, which resembles a NATO-style commitment without full membership, is seen as a way to reassure Ukraine while avoiding direct confrontation between the U.S. and Russia.
A major sticking point, however, remains the issue of territorial concessions. While Trump has reportedly pressured Ukraine to accept that a peace agreement may require giving up some territory, Zelensky has consistently refused to cede any part of the country. This fundamental disagreement is a central focus of the Paris talks. European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, have reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and are expected to argue against any land swaps that reward Russian aggression.
The meeting also comes against the backdrop of a potential future summit between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which has been under discussion. For Ukraine, the Paris meeting is a crucial opportunity to ensure it remains a central and empowered participant in any peace talks, rather than a side player whose fate is decided by others. It is an opportunity for Zelensky to make a direct and personal appeal to Trump, outlining the immense cost of the war and the need for unwavering support.
While the discussions are a positive sign of continued engagement, the path to a lasting peace remains complex. The deep-seated issues of territorial integrity and security guarantees are unlikely to be resolved in a single meeting. However, the fact that these high-level talks are continuing with a focus on a coordinated approach between the U.S. and its European allies provides a glimmer of hope for a diplomatic solution to a conflict that has ravaged the continent for years.