7 European leaders to join Zelensky in White House meeting Monday
gephardtdaily.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 5:21:47 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S.–Russia Relations, U.S.–NATO Relations
Aug. 17 (UPI) -- Seven European leaders will join Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for talks with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday in a bid to end the war with Russia.
Zelensky and Trump announced the meeting on Saturday. On Sunday, it was disclosed they will be joined by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Macron, after appearing in a video conference with several European leader, said Sunday that "our goal for tomorrow's talks is to present a united front between Ukraine and its European allies" and warned "if we show weakness today in front of Russia, we are laying the ground for future conflict."
Zelensky last saw Trump in the White House on Feb. 23. During the contentious meeting, Trump accused Zelensky of "gambling with World War III" and being "disrespectful" to the United States. Plans for a cease-fire and a news conference were called off.
Two months later, the two leaders met amicably when they went to the funeral for Pope Franic at the Vatican on April 26.
Zelensky and von der Leyen met in Brussel, Belgium, on Sunday, joining a "coalition of willing," who are Ukraine's main European allies, in a video conference.
"There is a strong consensus among the Coalition countries on the need to continue supporting Ukraine," Finland's Stubb posted on X. "Europe and the United States are further strengthening their common position."
The EU's Costa said after the video meeting that "transatlantic unity is paramount at this moment" for a lasting peace in Ukraine in welcoming the U.S. willingness to seek security guarantees to Ukraine.
European leaders on Saturday signed a joint statement that, "as President Trump said, 'there's no deal until there's a deal.' As envisioned by President Trump, the next step must now be further talks, including President Zelensky, whom he will meet soon."
In addition to the attendees of Monday's meeting in Washington, the statement was signed by European Council President Antonio Costa and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
The leaders of the Nordic-Baltic Eight -- Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden -- said in a statement that there should be "no decisions on Ukraine without Ukraine and no decisions on Europe without Europe."
Trump posted Sunday morning on Truth Social "BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA. STAY TUNED."
Minutes earlier, he also criticized the media in two posts, writing that "if I got Russia to give up Moscow as part of the Deal, the Fake News, and their PARTNER, the Radical Left Democrats, would say I made a terrible mistake and a very bad deal. That's why they are the FAKE NEWS! Also, they should talk about the 6 WARS, etc., I JUST STOPPED!!! MAGA."
Earlier, he wrote that "it's incredible how the Fake News violently distorts the TRUTH when it comes to me. There is NOTHING I can say or do that would lead them to write or report honestly about me. I had a great meeting in Alaska on Biden's stupid War, a war that should have never happened!!!"
It had been more than 24 hours since he posted about the war in Ukraine.
After speaking with Zelensky and European leaders following his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday in Alaska, he wrote that "it was determined by all that the best way to end the horrific war between Russia and Ukraine is to go directly to a Peace Agreement, which would end the war, and not a mere Ceasefire Agreement, which often times do not hold up."
This stance shifted to an end to the 3 1/2-year-old war that began with Russia's invasion of the sovereign nation.
Zelensky was not invited to the summit with the two leaders.
CNN reported Trump told the Europeans he wants a summit among himself, Putin and Zelensky on Friday if talks go well on Monday with Ukraine's leader.
While many nations' leaders support Ukraine, Putin turned to his allies on Sunday. He held a phone call with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Information from Putin and Trump has been light on details. They spoke to reporters for a total of 12 minutes and took no questions on Friday.
They didn't mention whether Russia or Ukraine will give up land acquired during the war.
The three-on-three meeting included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who also is Trump's national security adviser, as well as Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff. They both spoke on Sunday TV talk shows with some slight differences in their perceptions of the meeting.
"We made progress in the sense that we identified potential areas of agreement, but there remains some big areas of disagreement," Rubio said on ABC's This Week. "So, we're still a long ways off. I mean we're not at the precipice of a peace agreement, we're not at the edge of one, but I do think progress was made."
On NBC's Meet the Press, Rubio downplayed sanctions on Russia. "I don't think new sanctions on Russia are going to force him to accept the cease-fire. They're already under very severe sanctions."
"We want to wind up with a peace deal that ends this war so Ukraine can go on with the rest of their lives and rebuild their country and be assured that this is never going to happen again," Rubio said on CBS's Face the Nation, adding "both sides are going to have to give, and both sides should expect to get something from this."
Witkoff, who served as Trump's envoy to the Middle East, said he saw some progress.
"The point was that we began to see some moderation in the way they're thinking about getting to a final peace deal," Witkoff said in an interview with Jake Tapper on CNN's State of the Union. "We made so much progress at this meeting with regard to all the other ingredients necessary for a peace deal that we, that President Trump pivoted to that place."
Putin spoke about "land swaps" during the meeting, Witkoff said.
Witkoff said that Putin discussed land swaps during their meeting, but did not go into specifics beyond that Putin now suggesting swaps occur at the current front lines rather than the administrative boundaries of at least some of the regions.
"The Russians made some concessions at the table with regard to all five of those regions," Witkoff said. "Hopefully, we can cut through and make some decisions right then and there."
The Trump administration has said it is up to Zelensky to accept a deal, and noted that Zelensky has opposed land swaps.
Trump told the European leaders that Putin insists Ukraine allow Russia to totally control the Donbas region in Eastern Ukraine where intense fighting has taken place since 2022, two sources told The New York Times. In exchange, he would freeze the current front lines elsewhere in Ukraine -- the regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia -- and promised not to attack Ukraine again or other European nation.
Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from Donetsk, which represents 30% of the eastern region. Russia had partially seized the Donbas in 2014 when the nation annexed the Crimean peninsula and captured key areas of the region in 2022.
Witkoff also said Putin agreed to allow a collective defense provision for Ukraine in a peace deal.
For the first time, Witkoff said Putin offered a version of NATO's Article 5 provision -- that the groups members will come to the defense of an ally under attack -- with Ukraine, but without involvement from NATO.
"We got to an agreement that the United States and other European nations could effectively offer Article 5-like language to cover a security guarantee," Witkoff said on CNN.
"Putin has said that a red flag is NATO admission," Witkoff said. And so what we were discussing was assuming that that held, assuming that the Ukrainians could agree to that and could live with that - and everything is going to be about what the Ukrainians can live with - but assuming they could, we were able to win the following concession that the United States could offer Article 5-like protection."
Putin hasn't spoken directly about aspects of a possible peace deal.
Zelensky thanked the European nations' support since the beginning of the war in February 2025, and said "sanctions show we are serious."
"We need real negotiations, which means they can start where the front line is now," Zelensky said at a news conference with the EU's von der Leyen. "The contact line is the best line for talking [...] Russia is still unsuccessful in Donetsk region. Putin has been unable to take it for 12 years, and the Constitution of Ukraine makes it impossible to give up territory or trade land.
"Since the territorial issue is so important, it should be discussed only by the leaders of Ukraine and Russia and the trilateral Ukraine-United States-Russia. So far, Russia gives no sign that trilateral will happen, and if Russia refuses, then new sanctions must follow."
Zelensky said he wanted more clarity on the "security guarantees" from Trump.
Unlike Trump, Zelensky has urged a ceasefire before a peace deal.
"First we have to stop the killings," Zelensky said. "Putin has many demands, but we do not know all of them, and if there are really as many as we heard, then it will take time to go through them all.
"It's impossible to do this under the pressure of weapons. So it's necessary to cease-fire and work quickly on a final deal. We'll talk about it in Washington. Putin does not want to stop the killing, but he must do it," the Ukrainian president said.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and a coalition of European leaders in Washington, D.C., highlights a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The historical context of this war cannot be overlooked; it is rooted in decades of geopolitical tension, particularly since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, which left a power vacuum in Eastern Europe. The West, particularly NATO, has expanded its influence into former Soviet territories, often viewed with suspicion by Russia. This meeting serves as a reminder of the complicated legacy of colonialism and imperialism that has shaped international relations, and it raises essential questions about the responsibilities of powerful nations in supporting self-determination and sovereignty for nations like Ukraine.
The collective resolve of European and American leaders to support Ukraine is a testament to the solidarity that can emerge in times of crisis. Macron's assertion that "if we show weakness today in front of Russia, we are laying the ground for future conflict" underscores the belief that appeasement could result in further aggression. This sentiment evokes historical parallels, such as the prelude to World War II, when inaction in the face of tyranny led to catastrophic consequences. The current leaders' commitment to presenting a united front reflects a recognition of this historical context and the need to stand firm against autocratic regimes. For advocates of social justice, this moment can be framed as an opportunity to challenge the notion that might makes right — a belief that has often led to the subjugation of vulnerable nations.
Moreover, the ongoing war in Ukraine is not just a geopolitical issue; it is inherently tied to social struggles, including the defense of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The Ukrainian resistance against Russian aggression can be viewed as a battle for these fundamental rights. It is essential to recognize that the war's ramifications extend beyond national borders, affecting global food security, energy supplies, and refugee crises. The plight of Ukrainian civilians, who have endured immense suffering and displacement, should serve as a rallying point for those advocating for humanitarian principles and international cooperation. Engaging in discussions about this conflict can illuminate the broader themes of justice and solidarity.
As the leaders convene in Washington, it is also crucial to scrutinize the role of military aid and the implications of increased militarization in the region. While there is a legitimate need to support Ukraine in its defense against invasion, the historical precedent of military interventions must not be ignored. The United States, in particular, has a complicated history of military involvement that often led to unintended consequences. Discussions around this meeting can benefit from a critical examination of alternative strategies that prioritize peacebuilding and diplomatic solutions over military escalation. Engaging right-wing counterparts in conversations about these alternatives can provide a more nuanced understanding of conflict resolution.
Finally, the dynamics of this meeting allow for reflections on the interconnectedness of global struggles for justice. As the leaders reiterate the importance of transatlantic unity, it is a moment to also acknowledge the voices of those who have historically been marginalized in these discussions. Movements advocating for peace, social equity, and anti-imperialism provide essential frameworks for understanding the global ramifications of conflicts like the one in Ukraine. Engaging right-wing individuals in dialogues that elevate these perspectives can help foster a more inclusive understanding of international relations, shifting the narrative toward one that champions human rights and collective security over military might and geopolitical dominance.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine serves as a critical juncture not just for Europe, but for the entire international community, invoking parallels to historical struggles against authoritarianism and imperialism. The recent meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and a coalition of European leaders, alongside U.S. President Donald Trump, underscores the importance of a unified stance against Russian aggression. This meeting, which aims to fortify transatlantic ties and support Ukraine in its struggle for sovereignty, offers a vital opportunity for citizens in the United States to engage in meaningful dialogue about foreign policy and the implications of war.
Historically, the conflict in Ukraine can be traced back to a complex interplay of national identity, geopolitical strategy, and energy politics. After Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, the conflict escalated into a full-scale war that has led to significant loss of life and displacement of civilians. The ongoing military operations have not only destabilized the region but have also raised questions about NATO's role and the West’s commitment to defending democratic values. The current leadership in Europe and the United States must recognize that their responses will have lasting consequences—not just for Ukraine, but for the stability of Europe and beyond.
In the context of this meeting, it is essential to acknowledge the rhetoric surrounding the discussions. Statements from leaders like Macron, emphasizing a united front against Russia, highlight the necessity of solidarity in the face of aggression. However, it is also crucial to address the potential pitfalls of militaristic solutions. War often leads to unintended consequences, and the voices of peace should not be drowned out by those advocating for escalation. As citizens, Americans can advocate for a diplomatic approach that includes dialogue, humanitarian aid, and support for civil society in Ukraine. Encouraging Congress to allocate resources for non-military assistance can help foster stability without deepening the conflict.
Furthermore, the role of public opinion in shaping foreign policy is paramount. Engaging in conversations about Ukraine with those who may have differing viewpoints—especially right-leaning individuals—can help bridge the gap in understanding. Rather than framing the discussion solely around military aid, it is beneficial to emphasize the human cost of war and the importance of supporting Ukrainian sovereignty through peaceful means. Invoking historical examples, such as the Marshall Plan, can illustrate how post-conflict recovery can be achieved through diplomacy and economic support, rather than solely through military intervention.
Finally, as American citizens, we must hold our leaders accountable to prioritize diplomacy and peacebuilding. This includes advocating for policies that favor negotiations and the involvement of international organizations in conflict resolution. The voices of those impacted by war—especially marginalized communities—should be amplified in these discussions. Mobilizing grassroots movements that call for a comprehensive peace strategy in Ukraine can serve to remind our leaders that the pursuit of peace is not just a political necessity, but a moral imperative. By pressing for a more humane and sustainable approach to international conflict, we can contribute to a future where diplomacy triumphs over war.
In conclusion, the meeting between Zelensky and European leaders, alongside President Trump, is a pivotal moment that requires a thoughtful response from American citizens. It is an opportunity to advocate for peace, promote humanitarian support, and encourage a nuanced understanding of international relations. By engaging in constructive dialogues and holding our leaders accountable, we can contribute to a more just and peaceful world.
Analyzing the article on the upcoming meeting between European leaders and President Zelensky from a personal action standpoint reveals several avenues for engagement. Here’s a detailed list of concrete actions individuals can take to support peace efforts in Ukraine while advocating for a more humane and diplomatic approach to the conflict.
### Personal Actions and Engagement
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - **Action**: Read books, articles, and watch documentaries about the Ukraine conflict to understand its historical context and current dynamics. - **Example**: Suggested readings include "The Gates of Europe" by Serhii Plokhy and "Red Famine" by Anne Applebaum.
2. **Contact Elected Officials**: - **Action**: Write to your representatives urging them to prioritize diplomatic solutions over military escalation in Ukraine. - **Who to Write**: - **U.S. Senators**: Find your senator’s contact information via [senate.gov](https://www.senate.gov). - **U.S. House Representatives**: Find your representative’s contact information via [house.gov](https://www.house.gov). - **Example Message**: ``` Subject: Urgent Action for Peace in Ukraine
Dear [Representative/Senator Name],
I am writing to express my concern regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. I urge you to support diplomatic efforts that prioritize peace and stability in the region. Please advocate for a ceasefire and engage with international partners to foster dialogue.
Thank you for your attention to this pressing issue.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] ```
3. **Sign and Share Petitions**: - **Action**: Find and sign petitions that call for peace initiatives and the cessation of military aid. - **Where to Find**: Websites like [Change.org](https://www.change.org) or [MoveOn.org](https://www.moveon.org). - **Example Petitions**: Search for petitions like “Call for a Peaceful Resolution to the Ukraine Conflict” or “Support Diplomatic Solutions in Ukraine”.
4. **Participate in Local Peace Organizations**: - **Action**: Join organizations advocating for peace that host events, discussions, and community outreach. - **Examples**: - **Peace Action**: [peaceaction.org](https://www.peaceaction.org) - **American Friends Service Committee**: [afsc.org](https://www.afsc.org) - **What to Do**: Attend meetings, volunteer for events, and participate in campaigns.
5. **Engage on Social Media**: - **Action**: Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to promote peace messages and share reliable information about the conflict. - **Example**: Create posts that inform your network about the need for diplomacy and humanitarian support for Ukraine.
6. **Organize Community Discussions**: - **Action**: Host or participate in community forums to discuss the Ukraine conflict and share perspectives on peace. - **How to Organize**: Use platforms like Meetup or local community centers to gather individuals interested in discussing international relations and peacebuilding.
7. **Contact International Organizations**: - **Action**: Reach out to organizations advocating for peace and humanitarian assistance, encouraging their efforts in Ukraine. - **Examples**: - **United Nations**: Email for inquiries: info@un.org - **International Red Cross**: Contact through their website for local branches.
### Conclusion
By engaging in these actions, individuals can contribute to a broader movement advocating for peace and diplomacy in Ukraine. It’s imperative to remain informed, communicate effectively with elected officials, and promote unity in civil society efforts toward conflict resolution. Each action, no matter how small, can contribute to a larger call for peace and understanding in a complex geopolitical landscape.