BREAKING: Donald Trump has just announced significant constraints on Ukraine’s future during high-stakes discussions with European leaders in Washington scheduled for Monday. Trump stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy could end the ongoing war with Russia “almost immediately” if he chooses, but he ruled out Ukraine reclaiming Crimea or joining NATO as part of negotiations with Moscow.
This urgent development comes just hours before Trump meets with key European figures, including Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, and Friedrich Merz, in the Oval Office. The meeting aims to counter a controversial US-backed plan that would require Ukraine to cede territory to Russia. Trump’s remarks, shared on his Truth Social platform, are raising alarm among European diplomats who are concerned about a potential repeat of the backlash Zelenskyy faced during his previous visit in February.
Trump’s post read, “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!!!” He added that it would be a “great honour” to host such a pivotal meeting at the White House. The implications of his comments are profound, especially as Zelenskyy attempts to bolster Ukraine’s security following last week’s contentious Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, which many analysts viewed as a setback for the US.
European leaders are set to reaffirm their support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and strongly oppose any land swap arrangements that would reward Russian aggression. They are also seeking clarification on what security guarantees the US might provide in the event of a settlement. Meanwhile, Russia’s envoy to international organizations, Mikhail Ulyanov, stated that any future peace agreement must include security guarantees for Kyiv but also insisted that Moscow deserves similar assurances.
In a show of support, Starmer praised Trump’s “efforts to end Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine.” However, he stressed that the “path to peace” cannot be determined without Zelenskyy’s involvement. Starmer emphasized the need for further sanctions to “squeeze” Russia and maintain pressure on Moscow.
Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, indicated that for the first time, Putin has agreed to allow the US and Europe to provide protection to Ukraine outside of NATO, akin to Article 5 of the NATO self-defense pact. This revelation adds another layer of complexity to the already intricate negotiations.
With the situation evolving rapidly, all eyes will be on the Oval Office discussions Monday. The outcome of these talks could significantly shape Ukraine’s future and its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression. Observers are particularly keen to see if Trump will soften his stance in light of the mounting pressure from European allies or maintain his controversial position that leaves Ukraine’s fate hanging in the balance.
Stay updated as this story develops.
