Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Oct 18: President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Friday, urging Kyiv and Moscow to “stop where they are” and seek an end to the war. The meeting came a day after Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the conflict. While Trump pushed for a ceasefire, Zelensky emphasized the need for negotiations but stopped short of fully embracing an immediate halt.

Trump signaled hesitation to provide Ukraine with long-range missile systems that Kyiv says it urgently needs. Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s limitations in missile capabilities, suggesting collaboration on military technology with the U.S.

On domestic matters, Trump commuted the sentence of former Rep. George Santos, who had been serving over seven years for fraud and identity theft. Trump announced the move on social media, calling it immediate. Santos had pleaded guilty to deceiving donors and using stolen identities to fund his campaign. The decision sparked debate, with supporters citing overreach and critics labeling it politically motivated.

The meeting with Zelensky also included discussions on sanctions, energy policy, and U.S.-China trade tensions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said talks with Chinese officials are planned to prepare for a leaders’ summit, following easing tensions over threatened tariffs.

Zelensky acknowledged Trump’s “momentum” to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, while Trump noted the personal animosity between the two leaders makes direct negotiations difficult.

Meanwhile, Trump defended Hungary’s continued purchase of Russian oil, citing geographic constraints, and hinted at an upcoming meeting with Putin in Budapest.

The White House meeting lasted over two hours and touched on military cooperation, diplomacy, and the urgent push for a ceasefire in Ukraine.