Zelensky to Meet Trump as Peace Efforts Continue After Failed Putin Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office on Monday afternoon, marking a significant step in ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the conflict in Ukraine. The meeting, announced by Trump, is part of a broader sequence of international engagements aimed at facilitating a resolution to the war [1]. Zelensky will be joined by European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and other EU officials, who are also working toward a negotiated settlement [1].

This upcoming visit follows a failed attempt to broker a ceasefire during the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, where no formal agreement was reached. In a press briefing, Trump explicitly stated that no deal had been made with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and he hinted that a negotiated solution would be necessary to end the war [3]. Despite the cordial atmosphere during the Alaska meeting—marked by a prolonged handshake and warm exchanges—the summit failed to produce any binding commitments [4].

Analysts and political observers have expressed concern over the lack of tangible progress. Some argue that the Trump administration’s policies, particularly any perceived restrictions on military aid to Ukraine, may have weakened Kyiv’s position [7]. The absence of a concrete agreement has also led to criticism from media outlets and allies, who question whether Trump’s diplomatic approach aligns with Ukraine’s strategic goals [6].

The Zelensky-Trump meeting represents a renewed push to leverage U.S. diplomatic influence in the crisis. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening support for Ukraine and exploring pathways to a lasting peace. Given the high stakes and the international attention on the conflict, the outcome of this meeting could have far-reaching implications for the region and global stability [1].

The meeting also reflects the complex interplay of U.S. foreign policy, European diplomacy, and the evolving dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine war. While Trump and Zelensky have expressed a mutual interest in peace, the path forward remains uncertain, particularly with Moscow showing little indication of halting hostilities. As the U.S. continues to play a pivotal role in global geopolitics, its engagement with Ukraine is expected to remain a central component of its foreign policy agenda [1].

Source: [1] Zelensky Meet Trump, Macron, EU (https://uk.news.yahoo.com/zelensky-meet-trump-macron-eu-085754088.html)

[2] Trump-Putin Summit Coverage (https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-alaska-russia-ukraine-a7b167f17a3e06fbce2f583c93f8bae1)

[3] No Ceasefire Deal After Alaska (https://kstp.com/ap-top-news/the-latest-trump-says-no-deal-to-end-the-russia-ukraine-war-was-made-with-putin-after-alaska-talks/)

[4] Trump-Putin Meeting Outcome (https://www.thetimes.com/us/american-politics/article/trump-putin-meeting-outcome-alaska-summit-latest-news-vbcdf5cz8)

[5] Trump and Putin’s Cordial Tone (https://www.wlwt.com/article/trump-rolls-red-carpet-limo-ride-for-putin/65794537)

[6] Trump-Putin Summit Analysis (https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/16/trump-putin-end-short-summit-without-ceasefire-deal-in-ukraine)

[7] Trump Policy Criticism (https://www.wtae.com/article/trump-putin-alaska-summit-latest/65788624)