Trump Hosts Zelenskyy at White House: U.S. Proposes Security Support for Ukraine
On August 18, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House to discuss the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The meeting, attended by European leaders from France and Germany, focused on providing security guarantees for Ukraine and exploring avenues for peace.
President Trump proposed that the United States could assist in providing security guarantees for Ukraine as part of a future peace agreement. He suggested that the U.S. role might involve support "by air," without deploying American ground troops. Trump emphasized that European nations, including France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, would take the lead in securing Ukraine, with the U.S. offering assistance through airpower or intelligence capabilities.
President Zelenskyy welcomed the U.S. commitment, noting that the details of these security guarantees would be formalized within ten days. He highlighted that these guarantees would be documented in written agreements and emphasized the U.S.'s role as both a coordinator and participant in the security framework.
The summit also addressed Ukraine's intention to purchase $90 billion in U.S. military aid, including aircraft and air defense systems, to bolster its defense capabilities amid the ongoing conflict. Additionally, an agreement was reached for the U.S. to purchase Ukrainian drones once Ukrainian exports resume, which Zelenskyy deemed an important milestone.
Both Trump and Zelenskyy expressed optimism about arranging a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the near future, potentially in Hungary. However, Russia has opposed any involvement of NATO troops, complicating the prospects for peace. European leaders are advocating for a ceasefire as a prerequisite for further talks, while President Trump has downplayed its necessity, favoring negotiations amid ongoing combat.
The tone of this meeting was notably more amicable compared to a previous contentious encounter in February. President Trump continues to emphasize the need for compromise, suggesting that Ukraine consider relinquishing Crimea and parts of Donetsk as part of a potential settlement.
The August 18, 2025, summit at the White House represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to resolve the Ukraine-Russia conflict. While significant proposals and commitments have been made, the path to a comprehensive peace agreement remains complex, requiring careful negotiation and international cooperation.