**US and Ukraine in Public Dispute**
The meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ended in a public dispute last night. The two leaders had a heated argument, with Trump refusing to name Russia as the aggressor and Ukraine as the victim.
This was a major contrast to the meeting between Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Trump on Thursday. After that meeting, Sir Keir’s team said they were “ecstatic” about the progress made on Ukraine. But last night’s outbursts gave a different picture.
**Clash on Substance**
The dispute wasn’t just about insults. It was also about substance. Trump threatened to cut US support for Ukraine if Zelensky doesn’t sign a deal. This has left Sir Keir with some difficult questions.
Should he try to get Trump back on board, or accept that the US can no longer be relied upon? Could European allies join the UK and France in offering troops to guarantee a peace deal?
**A Turning Point**
Until last night’s drama, it seemed like a deal to end the war was possible. But now, things look uncertain. The election of Trump had changed the dynamic, and focused minds on bringing an end to the conflict.
Zelensky has been willing to take part in negotiations, but his stance has softened recently. If the conflict is to end, it will have to happen at the negotiating table. Trump said he could get Russia to talk, but now it seems like Zelensky may have to go back to the table too.
**A Critical Juncture**
The next 24 hours are crucial. Sir Keir will try to pick up the pieces and push Europe to come up with a strong expression of support, alongside potential military backing. He’ll also hope to reset the tone and calm the atmosphere.
But the version of Trump administration we saw last night doesn’t portray a reliable partner. The Prime Minister is now faced with a decision not just on what to do, but who he can trust.
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