Washington, D.C.: European leaders have gathered in Washington to intensify diplomatic pressure on Russia and push for progress toward ending the war in Ukraine. The visit follows a recent high-stakes summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

European Leaders Rally for Swift Action

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merkel, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte are among those in Washington to meet with President Trump. Their goal is to convince him to take a stronger stance in favor of Ukraine.
Germany emphasized the need for a “quick peace agreement,” while Trump warned of the complexities, noting on Truth Social that “ceasefire agreements often don’t last.”

Zelensky Expresses Concern After U.S.-Russia Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced concern that the recent Putin-Trump summit “has complicated the situation.” Writing on social media, Zelensky argued that Moscow could stop its offensive if it truly wished for peaceful coexistence.

Trump is set to meet with Zelensky on Monday to discuss security guarantees and next steps toward peace.

Trump Plans Putin-Zelensky Meeting and Trilateral Talks

Following Oval Office discussions with European leaders, Trump called Putin to initiate arrangements for a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian presidents.
“I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting… After that meeting takes place, we will have a Trilat, which would be the two Presidents, plus myself,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, describing it as an “early step” toward ending a nearly four-year war.

Security Guarantees in the Works

Trump confirmed that talks included security guarantees for Ukraine, to be formalized within the next 7–10 days, coordinated by the U.S. and European countries. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed Trump’s 40-minute call with Putin, during which both leaders expressed support for direct Russia-Ukraine talks.