Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Aug 17: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is set to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday, marking their first Oval Office encounter since a public spat in February. The meeting comes after Trump’s secretive summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, which left European allies concerned over mixed signals regarding the Ukraine conflict.

Trump abandoned his initial push for an immediate ceasefire and told Zelenskiy and European leaders that Putin insists Ukraine cede control of the Donbas region—a move Zelenskiy has repeatedly rejected. European diplomats warned that Putin appeared to gain the upper hand, as the US focus shifted to a broader peace settlement rather than a prompt ceasefire.

Trump indicated willingness to support Ukraine’s security outside NATO, while Zelenskiy reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing peace. European leaders, meanwhile, reiterated that Ukraine’s territorial integrity must be upheld and that borders cannot be changed by force.

The White House has remained tight-lipped on details, and a potential trilateral meeting with Trump, Zelenskiy, and Putin could be explored in the future. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to face daily Russian attacks, including 85 drones and a ballistic missile launched overnight, signaling that Moscow intends to maintain military pressure even as diplomatic talks proceed.

Monday’s visit is expected to be a pivotal moment for Zelenskiy, balancing international pressure, security guarantees, and the ongoing conflict on the ground.