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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Aug 19, 2025, 21:59:21 IST
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Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting Live Updates: Zelenskyy says ready for bilateral meeting with Putin to end war
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at the White House and met Donald Trump. Later in the day, he will join a joint session with leaders of Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Finland, the European Union, and NATO at 3 pm EDT (12:30 am IST, Tuesday).
The high-stakes meeting follows the recent Alaska summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. While no official details were released, reports suggested Putin outlined terms for a peace deal, including Ukraine surrendering control of the remaining parts of Donetsk. Kyiv has already rejected such demands.
Currently, Ukrainian forces hold about a quarter of Donetsk, using its terrain as a defensive shield. Zelenskyy is pushing for an immediate ceasefire, but Trump’s stance has shifted closer to Moscow’s call for negotiations to continue alongside fighting.
The high-stakes meeting follows the recent Alaska summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. While no official details were released, reports suggested Putin outlined terms for a peace deal, including Ukraine surrendering control of the remaining parts of Donetsk. Kyiv has already rejected such demands.
Currently, Ukrainian forces hold about a quarter of Donetsk, using its terrain as a defensive shield. Zelenskyy is pushing for an immediate ceasefire, but Trump’s stance has shifted closer to Moscow’s call for negotiations to continue alongside fighting.
21:59 (IST) Aug 19
Nato defence chiefs of staff to hold video meeting Wednesday on Ukraine: official
19:50 (IST) Aug 19
Despite a flurry of meetings on Russia's war in Ukraine, major obstacles to peace remain
The second Oval Office meeting in six months between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy went off smoothly Monday, in sharp contrast to their disastrous encounter in February.
European leaders joined the discussions in a show of transatlantic unity and both they and Zelenskyy repeatedly thanked Trump for his efforts to end Russia’s three-year war on Ukraine.
“I don’t want to hide the fact that I wasn’t sure it would go this way,” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in Washington. “But my expectations were not just met, they were exceeded.”
But despite the guarded optimism and friendly banter among the leaders, there was little concrete progress on the main obstacles to ending the war — and that deadlock likely favors Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose forces continue to make steady, if slow progress on the ground in Ukraine.
“Putin cannot get enough champagne or whatever he’s drinking,” Gabrielius Landsbergis, a former foreign minister of Lithuania, said of Monday's meeting.
As NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte told Fox News: “All the details have to be hammered out."
European leaders joined the discussions in a show of transatlantic unity and both they and Zelenskyy repeatedly thanked Trump for his efforts to end Russia’s three-year war on Ukraine.
“I don’t want to hide the fact that I wasn’t sure it would go this way,” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in Washington. “But my expectations were not just met, they were exceeded.”
But despite the guarded optimism and friendly banter among the leaders, there was little concrete progress on the main obstacles to ending the war — and that deadlock likely favors Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose forces continue to make steady, if slow progress on the ground in Ukraine.
“Putin cannot get enough champagne or whatever he’s drinking,” Gabrielius Landsbergis, a former foreign minister of Lithuania, said of Monday's meeting.
As NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte told Fox News: “All the details have to be hammered out."
19:50 (IST) Aug 19
Putin suggested Moscow as venue for Zelensky summit: sources close to talks
12:13 (IST) Aug 19
US President Donald Trump’s White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and leading European figures provided the clearest sign yet of a possible path toward peace between Ukraine and Russia.
The Oval Office encounter marked a notable shift from their tense February meeting, which saw public criticism from Trump and Vice President JD Vance. This time, the mood was notably warmer, with discussions centring on security guarantees for Kyiv.
The meeting occurred just days after Trump’s Alaska summit with President Vladimir Putin, which failed to secure a ceasefire but convinced the US leader that Russia may be open to a deal. Trump phoned Putin after the Monday session to brief him and disclosed that arrangements for a Zelenskyy–Putin meeting have begun.
Despite lighter moments—Zelenskyy’s formal suit, charm offensive, and even a hot mic capturing Trump’s candid thoughts—the underlying issues remained urgent: Ukraine’s security, whether to prioritise a ceasefire, and the question of territorial compromise.
The Oval Office encounter marked a notable shift from their tense February meeting, which saw public criticism from Trump and Vice President JD Vance. This time, the mood was notably warmer, with discussions centring on security guarantees for Kyiv.
The meeting occurred just days after Trump’s Alaska summit with President Vladimir Putin, which failed to secure a ceasefire but convinced the US leader that Russia may be open to a deal. Trump phoned Putin after the Monday session to brief him and disclosed that arrangements for a Zelenskyy–Putin meeting have begun.
Despite lighter moments—Zelenskyy’s formal suit, charm offensive, and even a hot mic capturing Trump’s candid thoughts—the underlying issues remained urgent: Ukraine’s security, whether to prioritise a ceasefire, and the question of territorial compromise.
10:22 (IST) Aug 19
'We have decided to work in very concrete terms with the United States,' says France's Macron
09:22 (IST) Aug 19
Zelenskyy says ready for bilateral meeting with Putin to end war
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday he is ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin face-to-face to help end the war. Speaking after talks with US President Donald Trump and European leaders at the White House, Zelenskyy said, "I confirmed – and all European leaders supported me – that we are ready for a bilateral meeting with Putin."
Though pressure has mounted for Ukraine to cede territory, Zelenskyy used the summit to present battlefield realities directly to Trump during a one-on-one meeting. "This was the best of our meetings," Zelenskyy said. "I was able to show many things, even on the map, to all American colleagues regarding the situation on the battlefield."
French President Emmanuel Macron said the focus was not on concessions, but on organising security guarantees. Trump noted these would come "by the various European Countries (in) coordination with the United States." Zelenskyy added, "It is important that the United States... be participants in security guarantees for Ukraine," which could be formalised within ten days.
Though pressure has mounted for Ukraine to cede territory, Zelenskyy used the summit to present battlefield realities directly to Trump during a one-on-one meeting. "This was the best of our meetings," Zelenskyy said. "I was able to show many things, even on the map, to all American colleagues regarding the situation on the battlefield."
French President Emmanuel Macron said the focus was not on concessions, but on organising security guarantees. Trump noted these would come "by the various European Countries (in) coordination with the United States." Zelenskyy added, "It is important that the United States... be participants in security guarantees for Ukraine," which could be formalised within ten days.
09:03 (IST) Aug 19
Zelenskyy thanks US First Lady for bringing attention to 'abduction of Ukrainian children'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday expressed gratitude to US First Lady Melania Trump for her letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, which addressed the abduction of Ukrainian children during the war. In a post on X, Zelenskyy described the issue as central to the war’s humanitarian crisis.
"I want to thank FLOTUS Melania Trump for her attention to one of the most painful and difficult issues of this war – the abduction of Ukrainian children by Russia... At least 20,000 children were taken,"* he wrote. Zelenskyy added, "Her voice matters, and her care gives strength to this cause." He noted that he had asked President Trump to deliver a letter of gratitude from Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska, to Melania Trump.
He further pledged to keep working to bring every child and every prisoner of war home, stating, *"We will work to negotiate all-for-all prisoners of war exchange."*
Zelenskyy's post followed comments by Donald Trump, who said on Truth Social that he and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen were discussing the “massive Worldwide problem of missing children”. Trump added, "The World will work together to solve it, hopefully bringing them home to their families!"
"I want to thank FLOTUS Melania Trump for her attention to one of the most painful and difficult issues of this war – the abduction of Ukrainian children by Russia... At least 20,000 children were taken,"* he wrote. Zelenskyy added, "Her voice matters, and her care gives strength to this cause." He noted that he had asked President Trump to deliver a letter of gratitude from Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska, to Melania Trump.
He further pledged to keep working to bring every child and every prisoner of war home, stating, *"We will work to negotiate all-for-all prisoners of war exchange."*
Zelenskyy's post followed comments by Donald Trump, who said on Truth Social that he and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen were discussing the “massive Worldwide problem of missing children”. Trump added, "The World will work together to solve it, hopefully bringing them home to their families!"
07:51 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Zelenskyy says meeting with Putin should be held ‘without any conditions’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that placing preconditions on upcoming talks with Russia could risk derailing the dialogue entirely. He cautioned that if Ukraine were to set terms in advance, Moscow would likely respond in kind.
"That’s why I believe that we must meet without any conditions," he told reporters.
Zelenskyy also revealed that during his meeting with President Trump in the Oval Office, Trump presented him with a map showing the current front lines in Ukraine. The two leaders had a brief exchange over the territories marked on the map, though Zelenskyy emphasised it was not confrontational.
"We had a truly warm, good and substantial conversation," Zelenskyy said.
"That’s why I believe that we must meet without any conditions," he told reporters.
Zelenskyy also revealed that during his meeting with President Trump in the Oval Office, Trump presented him with a map showing the current front lines in Ukraine. The two leaders had a brief exchange over the territories marked on the map, though Zelenskyy emphasised it was not confrontational.
"We had a truly warm, good and substantial conversation," Zelenskyy said.
07:19 (IST) Aug 19
Trump says he has begun arrangements for face-to-face meeting between Putin and Ukraine's Zelenskyy
US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he has begun arranging a face-to-face meeting between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aiming to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. Shortly after speaking with Putin by phone, Trump said, "I called President Putin, and began the arrangements for a meeting, at a location to be determined, between President Putin and President Zelenskyy... After that meeting takes place, we will have a Trilat, which would be the two Presidents, plus myself."
While it's unclear whether Putin has formally agreed, Russian adviser Yuri Ushakov stated both leaders “spoke in favour” of continuing direct negotiations. Trump told European leaders that ceasefire terms and territorial issues should be resolved directly by the two presidents.
Earlier in Alaska, Trump met with Putin and leaned towards Russian demands regarding Ukrainian territory. At Monday’s White House meeting, Trump voiced support for European security guarantees for Ukraine, without committing US troops. “They want to give protection... and we’ll help them out with that,” he said.
While it's unclear whether Putin has formally agreed, Russian adviser Yuri Ushakov stated both leaders “spoke in favour” of continuing direct negotiations. Trump told European leaders that ceasefire terms and territorial issues should be resolved directly by the two presidents.
Earlier in Alaska, Trump met with Putin and leaned towards Russian demands regarding Ukrainian territory. At Monday’s White House meeting, Trump voiced support for European security guarantees for Ukraine, without committing US troops. “They want to give protection... and we’ll help them out with that,” he said.
07:17 (IST) Aug 19
Trump apprises Putin on 'good meeting' with EU leaders, Zelenskyy
US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he had a "very good meeting" in the Oval Office with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and several European leaders. He also spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, briefing him on developments in Washington.
In a Truth Social post, Trump wrote, "I had a very good meeting with distinguished guests... During the meeting we discussed Security Guarantees for Ukraine... Everyone is very happy about the possibility of PEACE for Russia/Ukraine."
He added, "At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin... we will have a Trilat, which would be the two Presidents, plus myself... this was a very good, early step for a War that has been going on for almost four years."
The White House echoed this optimism, stating, "We are all working for the same goal. We want to stop the killing and resolve this."
In a Truth Social post, Trump wrote, "I had a very good meeting with distinguished guests... During the meeting we discussed Security Guarantees for Ukraine... Everyone is very happy about the possibility of PEACE for Russia/Ukraine."
He added, "At the conclusion of the meetings, I called President Putin... we will have a Trilat, which would be the two Presidents, plus myself... this was a very good, early step for a War that has been going on for almost four years."
The White House echoed this optimism, stating, "We are all working for the same goal. We want to stop the killing and resolve this."
05:31 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Macron on potential Ukraine peace deal
Emmanuel Macron says peace deal would not restrict Ukraine military size.
04:19 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Putin ready to meet Zelenskyy, source says
Russian President Vladimir Putin told US counterpart Donald Trump on Monday that he is willing to meet Ukranian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, a person familiar with the call said.
Putin told Trump, whom he met Friday in Alaska, of his readiness to meet Zelensky during a telephone call in a break from White House talks in Washington with European leaders, the person said on condition of anonymity.
Putin told Trump, whom he met Friday in Alaska, of his readiness to meet Zelensky during a telephone call in a break from White House talks in Washington with European leaders, the person said on condition of anonymity.
03:55 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Trump to arrange meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin
Trump says he has begun arrangements for face-to-face meeting between Russia's Putin and Ukraine's Zelenskyy. This would be followed by trilateral summit between the US, Russia and Ukraine.
03:35 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Trump's prediction of Ukraine war's 'endgame'
“We’ll see in a certain period of time, not very far from now, a week or two weeks, we’re going to know whether or not we’re going to solve this or is this horrible fighting going to continue,” Trump said during the talks with Zelenskyy and European leaders.
03:16 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy meet at White House - Key points
Donald Trump held key meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday. The US president assured that the States would be involved in Kyiv's "future security" as Russia continues its aggression against the war-torn nation.
Trump pressed for a lasting peace instead of a "two-year" one that would end up in "mess" again.
Read more02:56 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Trump pauses meet to call Putin, sources say
According to source close to talks, Trump paused meeting with Europeans to call Putin.
02:24 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: US president's multileader meeting with Zelenskyy, European leaders underway
US President Donald Trump's multileader summit with Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy, seven other European leaders underway.
02:00 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Germany's Merz calls for ceasefire before proposed US-Russia-Ukraine trilateral
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called Monday for a ceasefire in Ukraine before a leaders' summit, contradicting US President Donald Trump's call to work for a peace deal with Russia instead.
"I can't imagine that the next meeting would take place without a ceasefire, so let's work on that and let's try to put pressure on Russia," Merz said in an expanded meeting at the White House involving European leaders, Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
"I can't imagine that the next meeting would take place without a ceasefire, so let's work on that and let's try to put pressure on Russia," Merz said in an expanded meeting at the White House involving European leaders, Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
01:31 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: White House meeting could be 'historic' step, says UK's Starmer
According to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is among the European leaders with Zelenskyy, the meeting with US President Donald Trump could be a “historic step” for Ukraine and Europe’s security.
The British leader said Trump’s indication of “Article-5 style” security guarantees corresponds with the work the “Coalition of the Willing” — Ukraine’s main European allies — has been doing for the past months.
He added the coalition is “prepared to step up to the plate” when it comes to ensuring Ukraine’s security.
The British leader said Trump’s indication of “Article-5 style” security guarantees corresponds with the work the “Coalition of the Willing” — Ukraine’s main European allies — has been doing for the past months.
He added the coalition is “prepared to step up to the plate” when it comes to ensuring Ukraine’s security.
00:57 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Macron suggests 4-way summit of Ukraine, Russia, US and Europeans
French President Emmanuel Macron, one of the seven European leaders accompanying Zelenskyy, suggested a 4-way summit involving Ukraine, Russia, US and a European leader.
“I think as a follow up, we would need probably a quadrilateral meeting. Because when we speak about security guarantees, we speak about the whole security of the European continent,” Macron said.
“I think as a follow up, we would need probably a quadrilateral meeting. Because when we speak about security guarantees, we speak about the whole security of the European continent,” Macron said.
00:52 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Ukrainian leader hails 'best' conversation yet with Trump
Zelenskyy gave an upbeat assessment of talks with Trump and said they discussed security guarantees.
"We had a very good conversation with President Trump, and it really was the best one -- or, sorry, maybe the best one will be in the future," Zelensky said at an expanded meeting with European leaders.
"We had a very good conversation with President Trump, and it really was the best one -- or, sorry, maybe the best one will be in the future," Zelensky said at an expanded meeting with European leaders.
00:50 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Putin accepted Western security guarantees for Ukraine, says Trump
Addressing a joint meeting with Zelenskyy and other European leaders, Trump said Vladimir Putin had accepted that there would be security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any peace deal.
"In a very significant step, President Putin agreed that Russia would accept security guarantees for Ukraine and this is one of the key points that we need to consider and we're going to be considering that at the table, also who will do what essentially," said Trump as he opened talks with European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.
"I think the European nations are going to take a lot of the burden. We're going to help them and we're going to make it very secure," he added.
"In a very significant step, President Putin agreed that Russia would accept security guarantees for Ukraine and this is one of the key points that we need to consider and we're going to be considering that at the table, also who will do what essentially," said Trump as he opened talks with European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.
"I think the European nations are going to take a lot of the burden. We're going to help them and we're going to make it very secure," he added.
00:28 (IST) Aug 19
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Trump now meets European leaders accompanying Zelenskyy
After holding talks with Zelenskyy, Trump meets European leaders who came with the Ukrainian president for the summit.
00:02 (IST) Aug 19
Trump=Zelenskyy meeting: How Trump gave 'dressing down' to Zelenskyy ahead of their meeting
Donald Trump bluntly told Ukraine's President Voldymyr Zelenskyy ahead of their White House meeting on Monday afternoon to give up territory his country has lost to Russia and forget about joining Nato.
"This was is going to end...one way or another it is going to end..." Trump told reporters at a White House meeting with Zelenskyy, while offering "Nato-like" protection for Ukraine at the behest of European leaders. The Ukrainian leader appeared reconciled to losing territory Russia has captured and is now seeking security guarantees for what remains.
Read full story23:36 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: US president says he likes 'concept of a ceasefire for one reason'
"I don't think you need a ceasefire. If you look at the six deals that I settled this year, they were all at war. I didn't do any ceasefires ... I like the concept of a ceasefire for one reason: because you'd stop killing people immediately," says Trump.
23:26 (IST) Aug 18
Trump to make phone call to Putin after meeting
Donald Trump said, "I just spoke to President Putin indirectly, and we're going to have a phone call right after these meetings today — and we may or may not have a trilat."
23:19 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: US President talks on 'mail in voting'
Trump said, "If you have mail in voting, you're not going to have many Democrats get elected. That's bigger than anything having to do with redistricting, believe me." He further added, "And we as a Republican party are going to do everything possible that we get rid of mail in ballots… we're the only country in the world, I believe, I may be wrong, but just about the only country in the world that uses it."
23:13 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Putin coming to US soil is 'hard thing,' says Trump
"As an example, they said, because of the fact that Vladimir Putin came to American soil, this was a tremendous defeat for Donald Trump. No, it was really wonderful that he did it. It was a hard thing for him to do, to be honest with you. It was the opposite of what they said," Trump told reporter at Oval office.
23:05 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: 'Melania hates to see something like this happening,' says Trump
Melania felt very strongly. She's watched the same thing that you watch... She loves children, and she hates to see something like this happening... It was a very beautiful letter. It was very well-received by him," Trump said.
23:04 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: 'Going to make sure that if there's peace, that is going to stay long-term,' says Trump
"We're going to work with Ukraine, we're going to work with everybody, and we're going to make sure that if there's peace, that peace is going to stay long-term... We're not talking about a 2-year peace and then we end up in this mess again," Donald Trump said while responding to a reporter at Oval office, sitting along with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
23:00 (IST) Aug 18
Putin wants war to end; but rules out ceasefire: Trump
US President Donald Trump, at the Oval office, said that Russian President wanted to end the war and added that Ukraine will see peace soon. "People are being killed and we want to stop that... I know the President, I know myself, and I believe Vladimir Putin wants to see it ended," Trump said.
When asked will there be severe consequences if a 30 day cease fire or any type of ceasefire were not agreed to by Russia, Trump answered, "I don't think you need a ceasefire."
When asked will there be severe consequences if a 30 day cease fire or any type of ceasefire were not agreed to by Russia, Trump answered, "I don't think you need a ceasefire."
22:54 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Zelenskyy gives letter to Trump for first lady
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy gave a letter to Donald Trump for First Lady Melania Trump.
22:52 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meet: First visual from Oval office
Trump abd Zelenskyy reached Oval office and started the meeting.
22:47 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meet: Zelenskyy meets Trump at White House; opts for black jacket
Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Donald Trump at the White House for Ukraine peace deal.
22:43 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Ukrainian president to meet Trump soon at White House
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is soon to meet Donald Trump at the White House for the Ukraine peace deal.
22:24 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-zelenskyy meeting: Meloni, Macron arrive at White House
German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, Finland's President, Alexander Stubb, Italian President Giorgia Meloni, and French President Emmanuel Macron arrived at the White House to meet US President Donald Trump.
22:14 (IST) Aug 18
Air alert over Kyiv ahead of Trump-Zelensky talks in Washington
Air raid sirens sounded over Kyiv on Monday, AFP journalists heard, ahead of highly-anticipated talks in Washington between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US leader Donald Trump.
The Ukrainian air force said on social media an air alert was triggered across the country because a Russian MiG-31 was detected taking off, capable of carrying Kinzhal hypersonic missiles that Moscow has been using in attacks.
The Ukrainian air force said on social media an air alert was triggered across the country because a Russian MiG-31 was detected taking off, capable of carrying Kinzhal hypersonic missiles that Moscow has been using in attacks.
22:11 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting live updates: Zelenskyy says 'pressure must work' on Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the main goal is a "reliable and lasting peace" for Ukraine and Europe and added that it is important that the momentum of all the meetings lead to precisely this result.
"We understand that we shouldn't expect Putin to voluntarily abandon aggression and new attempts at conquest. That is why pressure must work, and it must be joint pressure – from the United States and Europe, and from everyone in the world who respects the right to life and the international order," Zelenskyy said in a post on X.
"We must stop the killings, and I thank our partners who are working toward this and ultimately toward a reliable and dignified peace. Together with the leaders of Finland, the United Kingdom, Italy, the European Commission, and the NATO Secretary General, we coordinated our positions ahead of the meeting with President Trump. Ukraine is ready for a real truce and for establishing a new security architecture. We need peace," he added.
"We understand that we shouldn't expect Putin to voluntarily abandon aggression and new attempts at conquest. That is why pressure must work, and it must be joint pressure – from the United States and Europe, and from everyone in the world who respects the right to life and the international order," Zelenskyy said in a post on X.
"We must stop the killings, and I thank our partners who are working toward this and ultimately toward a reliable and dignified peace. Together with the leaders of Finland, the United Kingdom, Italy, the European Commission, and the NATO Secretary General, we coordinated our positions ahead of the meeting with President Trump. Ukraine is ready for a real truce and for establishing a new security architecture. We need peace," he added.
21:59 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Mark Rutte, Ursula von der Leyen and Keir Starmer first to turn up
European leaders began arriving at the White House on Monday ahead of high-stakes talks with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on a possible peace deal with Russia.
NATO chief Mark Rutte, European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer were the first to turn up, after huddling with Zelensky at the Ukrainian embassy in Washington.
NATO chief Mark Rutte, European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer were the first to turn up, after huddling with Zelensky at the Ukrainian embassy in Washington.
21:53 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: European leaders arrive for White House meeting
European leaders arrived fo White House meeting over Russia-Ukraine war. The Europeans, sidelined from Trump’s high-profile summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska last Friday, are determined to shield both Ukraine and the wider continent from further Russian aggression.
Their presence in Washington signals both the urgency and the unease sparked by the Alaska talks. With Putin pressing for major concessions from Kyiv, Europe’s leaders are now rallying around Zelenskyy in a rare display of collective diplomatic muscle to ensure Ukraine’s core interests are not compromised.
Their presence in Washington signals both the urgency and the unease sparked by the Alaska talks. With Putin pressing for major concessions from Kyiv, Europe’s leaders are now rallying around Zelenskyy in a rare display of collective diplomatic muscle to ensure Ukraine’s core interests are not compromised.
21:29 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: Trump, Zelensky and Europeans meet in bid to resolve split over Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Washington on Monday for a high-stakes meeting with US President Donald Trump, joined by a group of European leaders seeking to close widening differences over a potential peace deal with Russia.
Trump, fresh from his Alaska summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, is pressuring Kyiv to make sweeping concessions — including relinquishing Crimea and dropping its NATO membership bid — demands that echo Moscow’s long-standing position.
Ahead of the talks, Zelenskyy met with European allies and urged Trump to pursue “peace through strength” in confronting Russia, while emphasizing the importance of firm US security guarantees for Ukraine.
The two presidents are expected to begin with a one-on-one meeting in the Oval Office, closely watched after February’s dramatic episode when Trump and his deputy, JD Vance, publicly rebuked Zelenskyy during his last visit.
Trump, fresh from his Alaska summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, is pressuring Kyiv to make sweeping concessions — including relinquishing Crimea and dropping its NATO membership bid — demands that echo Moscow’s long-standing position.
Ahead of the talks, Zelenskyy met with European allies and urged Trump to pursue “peace through strength” in confronting Russia, while emphasizing the importance of firm US security guarantees for Ukraine.
The two presidents are expected to begin with a one-on-one meeting in the Oval Office, closely watched after February’s dramatic episode when Trump and his deputy, JD Vance, publicly rebuked Zelenskyy during his last visit.
20:48 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting: EU leaders to discuss Ukraine on Tuesday, says European Council president Antonio Costa
The European Union's 27 leaders will discuss Ukraine and the outcome of high-stakes White House talks in a videoconference on Tuesday, European Council president Antonio Costa said on Monday.
"I have convened a video conference of the members of the European Council for tomorrow at 13.00 CEST, for a debriefing of today's meetings in Washington DC about Ukraine. Together with the US, the EU will contin
"I have convened a video conference of the members of the European Council for tomorrow at 13.00 CEST, for a debriefing of today's meetings in Washington DC about Ukraine. Together with the US, the EU will contin
19:58 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-zelenskyy meeting: Ukrainian prez meets US envoy to Ukraine, says 'Trump has strength to force Russia into peace'
19:44 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting Live Update: 'Sleepy Joe Biden’s war, not mine,' says Trump
"I’ve settled 6 Wars in 6 months, one of them a possible Nuclear disaster, and yet I have to read & listen to the Wall Street Journal, and many other who truly don’t have a clue, tell me everything that I am doing wrong on the Russia/Ukraine MESS, that is Sleepy Joe Biden’s war, not mine. I’m only here to stop it, not to prosecute it any further. It would have NEVER happened if I was President. I know exactly what I’m doing, and I don’t need the advice of people who have been working on all of these conflicts for years, and were never able to do a thing to stop them. They are “STUPID” people, with no common sense, intelligence, or understanding, and they only make the current R/U disaster more difficult to FIX. Despite all of my lightweight and very jealous critics, I’ll get it done — I always do!!!" Trump said in a pst n Truth Social
19:43 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meet: What to know about Zelenskyy's meeting with Trump
Talks tday are being seen as a potentially pivotal moment in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. After his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, US President Donald Trump is pushing for a breakthrough, though significant obstacles remain.
Both Kyiv and Moscow have long drawn hard red lines that clash with each other, including the question of whether Ukraine should cede territory, the future role of its military, and guarantees against further Russian aggression. These unresolved issues continue to complicate the path to peace.
On Sunday night, Trump suggested on social media that the responsibility to end the conflict lies with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, saying, “President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight.”
While Trump’s comments underline the pressure on Kyiv, analysts caution that a comprehensive settlement remains distant, given the entrenched positions on both sides.
Both Kyiv and Moscow have long drawn hard red lines that clash with each other, including the question of whether Ukraine should cede territory, the future role of its military, and guarantees against further Russian aggression. These unresolved issues continue to complicate the path to peace.
On Sunday night, Trump suggested on social media that the responsibility to end the conflict lies with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, saying, “President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight.”
While Trump’s comments underline the pressure on Kyiv, analysts caution that a comprehensive settlement remains distant, given the entrenched positions on both sides.
19:27 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting Live Updates: Trump targets 'fake' news
"I am totally convinced that if Russia raised their hands and said, “We give up, we concede, we surrender, we will GIVE Ukraine and the great United States of America, the most revered, respected, and powerful of all countries, EVER, Moscow and St. Petersburg, and everything surrounding them for a thousand miles, the Fake News Media and their Democrat Partners would say that this was a bad and humiliating day for Donald J. Trump, one of the worst days in the history of our Country.” But that’s why they are the FAKE NEWS, and the badly failing Radical Left Democrats. Thank you for your attention to this matter!!!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
18:47 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting Live Update: 'Never had so many European Leaders at White House at one time,' Trump says
As European leaders came along with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the meeting with US counterpart at the White House, American President said that he was shocked to see so many at the same time.
"A big day at the White House. We have never had so many European Leaders here at one time. A great honor for America!!! Lets see what the results will be???" Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
"A big day at the White House. We have never had so many European Leaders here at one time. A great honor for America!!! Lets see what the results will be???" Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
17:53 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting Live Updates: Ukrainian prez urges "stronger sanctions" on Russia if no trilateral peace talks happen
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for tougher sanctions against Russia if a trilateral meeting does not take place involving himself, US President Donald Trump, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The call came after a conversation between Zelensky and Trump on Saturday, following the US leader's meeting with Putin in Alaska without Ukraine's participation.
In a post on X, Zelensky recounted his discussion with Trump, stating that "sanctions are an effective tool." He added that they "should be strengthened if there is no trilateral meeting" or if Russia tries to evade what he called "an honest end to the war."
The call came after a conversation between Zelensky and Trump on Saturday, following the US leader's meeting with Putin in Alaska without Ukraine's participation.
In a post on X, Zelensky recounted his discussion with Trump, stating that "sanctions are an effective tool." He added that they "should be strengthened if there is no trilateral meeting" or if Russia tries to evade what he called "an honest end to the war."
17:42 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting Live Updates: Putin dials PM Modi, underline India’s consistent position for peaceful resolution of the conflict through diplomacy and dialogue
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which the two leaders discussed recent geopolitical developments and bilateral ties.
Putin briefed Modi on his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska last week, sharing his assessment of the talks. Modi reiterated India’s consistent position in favor of a peaceful resolution of the conflict through diplomacy and dialogue, stressing New Delhi’s support for all initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace.
The leaders also reviewed various aspects of India-Russia cooperation and expressed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both sides agreed to maintain regular contact going forward.
Putin briefed Modi on his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska last week, sharing his assessment of the talks. Modi reiterated India’s consistent position in favor of a peaceful resolution of the conflict through diplomacy and dialogue, stressing New Delhi’s support for all initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace.
The leaders also reviewed various aspects of India-Russia cooperation and expressed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both sides agreed to maintain regular contact going forward.
17:40 (IST) Aug 18
Trump-Zelenskyy meeting Live Updates: Russia cynically attacking Ukraine ahead of Washington talks, says Zelenskyy
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday announced that Russia had carried out “demonstrative and cynical” strikes on Ukraine, including an Azerbaijani-owned oil facility, ahead of his planned talks in Washington with Donald Trump.
“This was a demonstrative and cynical Russian strike. They are aware that a meeting is taking place today in Washington that will address the end of the war,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.
“Putin will commit demonstrative killings to maintain pressure on Ukraine and Europe, as well as to humiliate diplomatic efforts. That is precisely why we are seeking assistance to put an end to the killings.”
“This was a demonstrative and cynical Russian strike. They are aware that a meeting is taking place today in Washington that will address the end of the war,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.
“Putin will commit demonstrative killings to maintain pressure on Ukraine and Europe, as well as to humiliate diplomatic efforts. That is precisely why we are seeking assistance to put an end to the killings.”
4 More Updates
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at the White House and met US President Donald Trump. A short while ago, European leaders too arrived here.
This comes after the US President meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska last week. in the Oval Office before holding a joint session with leaders of Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Finland, the European Union and Nato at 3 pm EDT (12:30 am IST, Tuesday).
After landing in Washington on Sunday night, Zelenskyy thanked Trump for the invitation while firmly restating Ukraine’s position. “We all equally want to end this war swiftly and reliably. Russia must end this war -- the war it started. And I hope that our shared strength with America and with our European friends will compel Russia to real peace,” he said on Telegram.
This meeting comes on the heels of the Alaska summit, where Trump held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. While neither leader disclosed details, reports claimed Putin presented a set of demands tied to a potential peace deal. Kyiv has rejected the reported proposals, which allegedly included Ukraine ceding control of the remaining parts of Donetsk.
Ukrainian forces currently hold about a quarter of Donetsk, relying on its towns and high ground as a defensive buffer, according to Reuters. Zelenskyy is instead calling for an immediate ceasefire followed by structured negotiations. Trump, who initially supported a ceasefire, has since shifted his stance after meeting Putin, leaning closer to Moscow’s preference for talks while fighting continues.
This comes after the US President meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska last week. in the Oval Office before holding a joint session with leaders of Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Finland, the European Union and Nato at 3 pm EDT (12:30 am IST, Tuesday).
After landing in Washington on Sunday night, Zelenskyy thanked Trump for the invitation while firmly restating Ukraine’s position. “We all equally want to end this war swiftly and reliably. Russia must end this war -- the war it started. And I hope that our shared strength with America and with our European friends will compel Russia to real peace,” he said on Telegram.
This meeting comes on the heels of the Alaska summit, where Trump held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. While neither leader disclosed details, reports claimed Putin presented a set of demands tied to a potential peace deal. Kyiv has rejected the reported proposals, which allegedly included Ukraine ceding control of the remaining parts of Donetsk.
Ukrainian forces currently hold about a quarter of Donetsk, relying on its towns and high ground as a defensive buffer, according to Reuters. Zelenskyy is instead calling for an immediate ceasefire followed by structured negotiations. Trump, who initially supported a ceasefire, has since shifted his stance after meeting Putin, leaning closer to Moscow’s preference for talks while fighting continues.
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