The President of Ukraine has touched down in Washington alongside other European leaders— including representatives from Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Finland, the European Commission, and NATO— for negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump. These talks focus on how to end the war with Russia and ensure the safety of Ukraine’s future.
The timing is notable, coming just days after Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Now the focus shifts to the White House, where Ukraine and its European allies want to make sure their voices are heard.
Trump Advocates for a “Quick Deal” While Pushing Back on NATO
President Trump says he wants the process to move quickly. He has been pushing the idea of a “quick deal” to bring the war to a close. However, speed carries risks. In multiple social media posts, he claimed that Zelensky could “end the war almost immediately” if he chose to, but suggested Ukraine must accept that Crimea will remain under Russian control and that NATO membership is off the table.
Many in Kyiv and across Europe worry that moving too fast could pressure Ukraine into giving up too much. The goal isn’t just peace; it’s lasting peace, and Ukraine must be protected from future attacks.
Security Guarantees Similar to NATO
One of the most important proposals now under discussion is a U.S.-led, Article 5–style security guarantee for Ukraine. In NATO, if one member is attacked, the others come to its defense. While Ukraine is not being offered NATO membership, a similar guarantee could provide strong protection without formally joining the alliance.
Russia has reportedly said it would accept such an arrangement. For Ukraine, however, it is essential to confirm that any deal would be effective. Zelensky is receptive to the idea but wants actions rather than words.
Still, Ukrainians remain cautious. They note that the 1994 Budapest Memorandum was supposed to guarantee their borders, but when Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, that agreement fell apart.
Europe Stands Firm on Ukraine’s Borders
Many European leaders traveling with Zelensky (including those from Germany, France, and the UK) agree on a key point: Ukraine should not be forced to give up land in exchange for peace. Russia has dropped hints that it wants control of areas in eastern Ukraine, and both Zelensky and his European partners oppose this.
Several European leaders stressed that no discussion about surrendering territory can take place without Ukraine’s involvement. Poland’s Foreign Ministry also rejected the idea of negotiations without a ceasefire.
The Challenge of a Fair Peace
The discussions in Washington are about more than ending the fighting; they aim to secure durable peace and long-term independence. Zelensky has made it clear: he is open to negotiations, but not if they require surrendering Ukraine’s sovereignty.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking on American television, acknowledged there could be consequences if no deal is reached but added that both Ukraine and Russia would have to make concessions.
In the meantime, Putin has briefed close allies on the Alaska talks, including Alexander Lukashenko, the leader of Belarus. According to reports, Zelensky has already rejected a Kremlin offer to freeze most front lines if Ukraine were to give up Donetsk entirely.
In Summary
Even though Trump wants to strike a deal, Ukraine and its allies are pressing for guarantees and strict protections against future threats.
The idea of Article 5–style security promises could be a breakthrough— but only if they are backed by action.