Ceasefire talks gain traction at White House

Trump and Zelenskyy join European leaders in a bid to push for a ceasefire and possible talks with Putin.

Trump and Zelenskyy open to talks with Putin as Europe pushes ceasefire

At a White House meeting, Trump, Zelenskyy and European leaders including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz discussed options to end the fighting in Ukraine. Merz said many leaders want a ceasefire and urged coordinated pressure on Russia. Trump suggested that talks with Zelenskyy and Putin could unfold, while noting his own historical record of settling conflicts without a formal ceasefire. Russia has signaled opposition to a temporary pause, adding complexity to any agreement.

The scene reflects a rare moment of Western unity pressed against sharp strategic realities. Trump’s willingness to engage in talks with Putin alongside Zelenskyy creates a potential path that could test Ukrainian protections and European patience. If a ceasefire is pursued, sustaining it will require verification and safeguards that keep pressure on Russia while shielding civilians. The coming weeks will show whether political comfort translates into concrete steps or merely buys time for conflicting regional interests.

Highlights

The outcome will depend on how commitments survive the first weeks after talks