Zelenskyy brings Europe's top leaders with him to meet Trump on ending Russia's war
wowktv.com -- Monday, August 18, 2025, 12:28:29 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Ukraine's future could hinge on a hastily assembled meeting Monday at the White House as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy brings with him an extraordinary cadre of European leaders to show U.S. President Donald Trump a united front against Russia.
The European political heavy-hitters were left out of Trump's summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin last Friday, and they look to safeguard Ukraine and the continent from any widening aggression from Moscow.
By arriving as a group, they hope to avoid any debacles like Zelenskyy's February meeting in the Oval Office, where Trump chastised him for not showing enough gratitude for American military aid. The meeting also is a test of America's relationship with its closest allies after the European Union and United Kingdom accepted Trump's tariff hikes partly because they wanted his support on Ukraine.
Monday's showing is a sign both of the progress and the possible distress coming out of the Alaska meeting as many of Europe's leaders are descending on Washington with the explicit goal of protecting Ukraine's interests, a rare and sweeping show of diplomatic force.
"It's important that America agrees to work with Europe to provide security guarantees for Ukraine, and therefore for all of Europe," Zelenskyy said on X.
The night before the meeting, however, Trump seemed to put the onus on Zelenskyy to agree to concessions and suggested that Ukraine could not regain Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, setting off an armed conflict that led to its broader 2022 invasion.
"President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight," he wrote Sunday night on social media. "Remember how it started. No getting back Obama given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!"
Zelenskyy appeared to respond with his own post late Sunday, saying, "We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably." He went on to say that "peace must be lasting," not as it was after Russia seized Crimea and part of the Donbas in eastern Ukraine eight years ago, and "Putin simply used it as a springboard for a new attack."
The sitdown in Alaska yielded the possible contours for stopping the war in Ukraine, though it was unclear whether the terms discussed would ultimately be acceptable to Zelenskyy or Putin.
The European heavyweights coming to Washington
Planning to join Zelenskyy in America's capital are European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
On the table for discussion are possible NATO-like security guarantees that Ukraine would need for any peace with Russia to be durable. Putin opposes Ukraine joining NATO outright, yet Trump's team claims the Russian leader is open to allies agreeing to defend Ukraine if it comes under attack.
Trump briefed Zelenskyy and European allies shortly after the Putin meeting, and details from the discussions emerged in a scattershot way that seemed to rankle the U.S. president, who had chosen not to outline any terms when appearing afterward with Putin.
"BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA," Trump posted Sunday on social media. The president also bemoaned media coverage of his summit with Putin and said on Truth Social: "I had a great meeting in Alaska."
Following the Alaska summit, Trump declared that a ceasefire was not necessary for peace talks to proceed, a sudden shift to a position favored by Putin.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Sunday that a ceasefire was still possible but that "the best way to end this conflict is through a full peace deal."
The issues on the table for the European allies
European officials confirmed that Trump told them Putin is still seeking control of the entire Donbas region, even though Ukraine controls a meaningful share of it.
And Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, said the U.S. and its allies could offer Ukraine a NATO-like commitment to defend the country if it came under attack as the possible security guarantee.
"How that's constructed, what we call it, how it's built, what guarantees are built into it that are enforceable, that's what we'll be talking about over the next few days with our partners who are coming in from overseas," Rubio told NBC's "Meet the Press."
Rubio said on Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures" that such a commitment "would be a very big move" by Trump. He expects the delegations will "spend six, seven hours talking about these things, maybe more, and try to get to a point where we have something more concrete."
Monday's meeting will likely be very tough for Zelenskyy, an official close to the ongoing talks said. That official spoke on condition of anonymity to speak openly about thinking within Ukraine and between allies.
Zelenskyy needs to prevent a scenario in which he gets blamed for blocking peace talks by rejecting Putin's maximalist demand on the Donbas, the official said. It is a demand Zelenskyy has said many times he will never accept because it is unconstitutional and could create a launching pad for future Russian attacks.
If confronted with pressure to accept Putin's demands, Zelenskyy would likely have to revert to a skill he has demonstrated time and again: diplomatic tact. Ukrainian leadership is seeking a trilateral meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump and Putin to discuss sensitive matters, including territorial issues.
Zelenskyy is looking to avoid another Oval Office blowup
After enduring a public tirade by Trump and Vice President JD Vance in February, Zelenskyy worked to repair relations with the U.S.
Constant diplomatic communication and a 15-minute meeting at the Vatican in April on the sidelines of Pope Francis' funeral helped turn the tide. Trump appeared at the time to be swayed by Zelenskyy's conditions for peace.
But Trump says he cares primarily about ending the war, an ambition that led him after his meeting with Putin to discard the need for a ceasefire.
European allies also have worked with Trump, reaching a deal in July for NATO allies to buy weapons from the U.S. for Ukraine.
Ahead of Monday's meeting, France's Macron stressed the importance of building up Ukraine's military and the need to show Putin that Europe interprets his moves as a threat to other nations.
"If we are weak with Russia today, we'll be preparing the conflicts of tomorrow and they will impact the Ukrainians and -- make no mistake -- they can impact us, too," Macron said.
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Kullab reported from Kyiv, Ukraine. Associated Press writer John Leicester contributed from Le Pecq, France.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and a coalition of European leaders at the White House highlights not only the precarious geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe but also the intricate dynamics of international diplomacy under the Trump administration. This gathering comes at a critical juncture, as Ukraine faces existential threats from Russia, which has continuously demonstrated its aggression since the illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014. The collective presence of European leaders signals a significant shift in the approach to confronting Russian expansionism, showcasing a united front that underscores the importance of multilateral collaboration in addressing security challenges.
Historically, the region’s conflicts can be traced back to the dissolution of the Soviet Union, which left a power vacuum and sowed seeds of discord among former Soviet states. The post-Cold War era saw a push for democratic reforms and integration into Western institutions by many Eastern European nations, including Ukraine. However, this ambition has been met with fierce resistance from Russia, which views NATO's eastward expansion as a direct threat to its sphere of influence. The implications of this historical context are profound, as they shape the current political discourse around military aid and support for Ukraine. The ongoing war is not merely a territorial dispute; it represents a struggle for self-determination, sovereignty, and the right of nations to choose their alliances free from coercion.
The meeting's backdrop reveals a pressing need for the United States to reassess its foreign policy strategies and commitments to allied nations. President Trump’s comments, suggesting that Zelenskyy could end the war by making concessions, resonate with a troubling pattern of overlooking the agency of the very nations that are fighting for their independence. Such rhetoric diminishes the reality of Ukraine's struggle and the sacrifices its people have endured. Furthermore, it perpetuates a dangerous narrative that equates the pursuit of peace with capitulation to authoritarian regimes. This framing erodes the moral imperative to support democracies resisting aggression and undermines the historical lessons learned from appeasement policies, which have repeatedly failed to secure lasting peace.
Zelenskyy's insistence on a "lasting" peace, distinct from the temporary ceasefires that have characterized previous agreements, reflects a broader understanding of the need for systemic change in the region. The lessons from the 2014 annexation of Crimea—wherein a lack of robust international support emboldened Russian aggression—are stark. The current peace negotiations must prioritize the sovereignty and security of Ukraine, ensuring that any agreements are not merely band-aids over deeper wounds. This perspective is essential in advocating for policies that do not shy away from holding aggressors accountable while simultaneously supporting those who seek democratic governance and human rights.
The European leaders' participation in this diplomatic endeavor is a reminder of the importance of unity among democratic nations in the face of authoritarianism. It raises critical questions about the role of international institutions, such as NATO and the European Union, in providing security guarantees to nations at risk. As the contours of potential agreements are discussed, it is vital for all stakeholders to recognize that the security of Europe is inextricably linked to the security of Ukraine. Upholding principles of collective defense and mutual support is not just a strategic necessity; it is a moral obligation to stand in solidarity with those who are fighting for their freedom against overwhelming odds. In a world increasingly defined by global interdependencies, the lessons of history compel us to advocate for a more just and equitable international order—one that prioritizes the rights of nations and peoples to determine their own destinies.
The ongoing war in Ukraine represents one of the most pressing geopolitical crises of our time, underscoring the significance of international alliances and the complex interplay of power dynamics. The recent meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and key European leaders at the White House is emblematic of a concerted effort to forge a unified front against Russian aggression. This diplomatic gathering illustrates not only the necessity of strong transatlantic ties but also the crucial role that the United States must play in supporting Ukraine against the encroachment of authoritarianism. Historically, the struggle for Ukraine’s sovereignty has been influenced by its geographical and cultural position between Russia and the West, making it a focal point of international tension that dates back to the Cold War and the post-Soviet era.
The backdrop of Zelenskyy's meeting is steeped in a tumultuous history marked by Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent armed conflict in Eastern Ukraine. These events have laid bare the vulnerabilities faced by Ukraine and the imperative for robust security guarantees from Western allies. In the present context, the meeting signifies an urgent call for the U.S. to reaffirm its commitment to Ukraine. The criticism aimed at President Trump regarding his previous interactions with Zelenskyy during their infamous 2019 meeting highlights a growing concern among European leaders about the unpredictability of U.S. foreign policy under his administration. The perception that Trump has often prioritized transactional relationships over strategic alliances poses a risk not only to Ukraine but to the broader stability of Europe.
In light of these developments, American citizens can take several actions to advocate for a more supportive and coherent U.S. policy towards Ukraine. First and foremost, increasing public awareness and understanding of the geopolitical stakes involved in Ukraine's struggle is essential. Engaging in discussions about the implications of Russian aggression on global democracy and human rights can galvanize broader support for U.S. intervention. Additionally, citizens can contact their elected representatives to express their concerns and urge them to support legislation that provides military and economic aid to Ukraine. This grassroots engagement can exert pressure on lawmakers to prioritize international solidarity with Ukraine and to reject isolationist tendencies.
Moreover, a concerted effort must be made to educate and inform people about the historical context of the conflict. Understanding the legacy of post-Cold War dynamics, NATO's eastward expansion, and the importance of international law in safeguarding territorial integrity can equip advocates with the necessary tools to articulate a compelling case for Ukraine. Resources such as documentaries, books, and public forums can foster informed dialogue among community members, ultimately building a more nuanced understanding of the situation. With this knowledge, advocates can more effectively counter narratives that downplay the significance of Ukraine's sovereignty or that suggest appeasement as a viable solution to Russian aggression.
Lastly, the meeting in Washington also highlights the importance of solidarity among democratic nations. American citizens can encourage their leaders to foster alliances not only with European partners but also with other democratic nations to collectively oppose authoritarianism. This can be achieved by promoting initiatives that strengthen international coalitions dedicated to upholding democratic values, such as freedom of speech, the rule of law, and human rights. By framing the struggle for Ukraine within the broader context of global democracy, Americans can help galvanize a unified response against the threats posed by autocratic regimes.
In conclusion, the recent diplomatic efforts surrounding Ukraine remind us of the critical importance of international cooperation in addressing aggression and preserving sovereignty. As citizens, we have the power to influence our leaders, educate our communities, and promote solidarity among nations. The stakes are high, and the path forward requires a concerted effort to advocate for policies that not only support Ukraine but also reinforce the principles of democracy and human rights on a global scale. By engaging in informed discourse and taking action, we can contribute to a more just and secure world, where the rights of nations to self-determination are upheld against the tides of authoritarianism.
In light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the recent high-level discussions involving key European leaders and the U.S. administration, there are several actionable steps individuals can take to express their support for Ukraine and advocate for a peaceful resolution to the war. Here’s a detailed list of ideas and actions:
### What You Can Personally Do
1. **Educate Yourself and Others:** - Stay informed about the conflict, its history, and the current political developments. Share this knowledge with friends and family. - Host a discussion group or an online forum to engage your community in understanding the complexities of the situation.
2. **Support Humanitarian Efforts:** - Contribute to organizations providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Some reputable organizations include: - **Doctors Without Borders:** [www.doctorswithoutborders.org](https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org) - **International Rescue Committee:** [www.rescue.org](https://www.rescue.org) - **UNICEF:** [www.unicef.org](https://www.unicef.org)
3. **Advocate for Peaceful Solutions:** - Write to elected officials urging them to support diplomatic efforts and humanitarian aid for Ukraine.
### Specific Actions
1. **Petition for Diplomatic Support:** - Start or sign petitions supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and calling for peaceful negotiations. Websites like Change.org or Avaaz.org are platforms where you can find or create petitions.
2. **Contact Elected Officials:** - Write to your local and national representatives, urging them to advocate for Ukraine. You can find your representatives’ contact information at [GovTrack.us](https://www.govtrack.us). - **Example Contact:** - **Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY)** - Email: [schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck](https://www.schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck) - Mailing Address: 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
- **Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY)** - Email: [ocasio-cortez.house.gov/contact](https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/contact) - Mailing Address: 2182 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
3. **Participate in Local Events:** - Attend rallies or local events supporting Ukraine. Check social media or local community boards for information about upcoming events.
4. **Engage on Social Media:** - Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to raise awareness about the conflict. Share articles, personal insights, and calls to action. - Tag relevant officials or organizations in your posts to amplify your message.
5. **Support Local Ukrainian Communities:** - Connect with and support Ukrainian organizations in your area. This could include attending cultural events or volunteering your time.
### What to Say
When contacting your elected officials, consider the following points to include in your communication:
- Express your concern about the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian impact. - Urge them to prioritize diplomatic solutions over military escalation. - Highlight the importance of support for Ukraine in terms of humanitarian aid, economic assistance, and diplomatic negotiations. - Advocate for stronger partnerships with European allies to ensure a unified approach to resolving the conflict. - Request updates on their actions regarding Ukraine and ask how you can further support their efforts.
By taking these steps, you can contribute to a greater awareness and advocate for peace and support for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Each action, no matter how small, can make a difference in fostering a more informed and engaged community.