Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump met at the White House on Monday to discuss possible ways to end the war in Ukraine. Zelensky expressed his willingness to join a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling a major diplomatic move.
President Donald J. Trump welcomes Ukrainian President @ZelenskyyUa for their second meeting at the White House. pic.twitter.com/A9J31z8XnV
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 18, 2025
The White House earlier confirmed that Trump is open to holding three-way talks with Putin and Zelensky in Alaska. Trump described his recent summit with Putin in Alaska as a “very productive meeting,” aimed at paving the way for peace.
President Donald J. Trump and President @ZelenskyyUa in the Oval Office. 🇺🇸🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/WTrSnKFzFM
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 18, 2025
Top European Leaders Join Trump-Zelensky Meeting
The meeting also included key European leaders, such as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
Key Highlights from Trump-Zelensky White House Meeting
Happening now in the Oval Office. WATCH ⬇️ https://t.co/ez9KWVupGj pic.twitter.com/W4rDiA67A9
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 18, 2025
Zelensky Open to Trilateral Talks with Putin
After Trump expressed support for a trilateral discussion, Zelensky said, “We are ready for trilateral.” Trump added that there is “a good chance” to end the war, stating, “I know the president, I know myself, and I believe Vladimir Putin wants to see it end.”
Zelensky’s Formal Suit Draws Attention
Zelensky appeared in formal attire, surprising Trump, who remarked, “He’s all dressed up today.” Reporters praised Zelensky’s look, with one saying, “Love the suit.” Trump joked, “That’s the one that attacked you last time,” to which Zelensky replied, “I remember that.”
REPORTER: “You look fabulous in that suit!”@POTUS: “I said the same thing!”
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) August 18, 2025
Letter Exchange Between First Ladies
Zelensky handed Trump a letter from Ukraine’s First Lady, saying, “My wife… gave the letter. It’s not to you but to your wife.” This comes a week after Trump delivered Melania’s letter to Putin urging an end to the war.
Will Trump Send US Troops to Ukraine?
When asked about sending US troops to Ukraine, Trump responded, “We’ll let you know that, maybe, later today.” He emphasized that European allies would play a key role in security.
Zelensky on Elections in Ukraine
Zelensky said he is open to holding elections once the war ends: “During the war, you can’t have elections… We need a truce everywhere—the battlefield, the sky, and the sea.” Trump jokingly added, “So if we happen to be in a war, no more elections? Oh, I wonder what the fake news would say.”
“Best Conversation So Far,” Says Zelensky
After private talks, Trump said he had a “very successful day,” while Zelensky called it “the best conversation” with Trump so far. Both leaders agreed on working towards a trilateral meeting to end the war.
