New York : As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepared to meet US President Donald Trump at the Oval Office with European leaders, Trump turned pressure on his counterpart, suggesting Ukraine should cede claims to some territories occupied by Russia.
Trump posted on Truth Social, “President Zelensky of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight.” He set pre-conditions, referencing Crimea and Ukraine’s NATO ambitions: “No getting back Obama given Crimea… and no going into NATO by Ukraine.”
Trump’s remarks echoed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s stance, but there was no corresponding ultimatum to Moscow. Trump pressures Zelensky ahead of the meeting, demanding Ukraine consider territorial concessions while European leaders accompanying Zelensky — including Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Friedrich Merz, and Ursula von der Leyen — stressed that borders must not be changed by force.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said Russia made some concessions regarding the five regions it claims, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted, “The only way to reach a deal is for each side to give and take.” Zelensky welcomed the US offer of security guarantees, calling it “historic,” covering land, sea, and air with Europe’s participation.
The meeting is designed to prepare the way for a potential trilateral summit with Putin, aiming to narrow differences and set parameters for negotiations. Zelensky and European leaders remain firm that Ukraine should not surrender any territory in peace talks, while Trump continues to push for concessions to end the conflict.
Meanwhile, fighting continues on the ground, with Russian attacks reported in Kharkiv and Sumy. European leaders are keen to ensure Zelensky is not pressured into unwanted compromises while exploring avenues for a US-backed peace framework.
The session underscores Washington’s pivotal role in negotiating a possible settlement and highlights the delicate balance of diplomacy, military strategy, and international pressure as the conflict enters its fourth year.
