The meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump at the Vatican has raised hopes for a peaceful resolution to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Zelensky described the meeting as “good” and said they discussed many issues one-on-one, while Trump called it a “very productive discussion”. The White House described their conversation as focusing on how to end the war between Ukraine and Russia.
Trump has been accused of promoting Putin’s narrative in his efforts to resolve the conflict. Witkoff, who was sent by Trump to negotiate with Putin, met with him in Moscow recently. Witkoff has been reported to share Putin’s viewpoint and promote Putin’s narrative, which is seen as dangerous.
Polish President Andrzej Duda expressed hope that the meeting between Zelensky and Trump could lead to new solutions and ideas to end the war. He stated it was in Poland’s interest for the war to end with a just peace, ensuring Poland can develop peacefully without fear of attack.
European leaders also expressed support for Ukraine, with European Commission President von der Leyen reaffirming Europe’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace. Estonian President Alar Karis reported that Trump promised not to withdraw as a mediator in Russia’s war against Ukraine, promising to continue working towards a ceasefire between the two countries.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the meeting between Zelensky and Trump as historic, with both leaders working for peace.
