US President Donald Trump stated that he sees cooperation with Ukraine as an opportunity to persuade Russian leader Vladimir Putin to end the war.
Trump on talks with Zelenskyy: “We can persuade Putin to make peace”
Trump’s meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, took place on October 17 at the White House. Upon entering the residence, a journalist asked the American president if he believed it was possible to persuade Putin to make peace. Trump responded confidently, “Yes, we can,” while clapping Zelenskyy on the shoulder.
Main Topics of the Talks
The main topic of the meeting, according to Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, was the possible provision of new American weapons to Ukraine. Particular attention was paid to long-range Tomahawk missiles, which, according to Trump, Zelenskyy would like to receive to strengthen the country’s defenses.
The meeting took place just one day after Trump’s two-hour phone call with Putin. Following the talks, the American president noted that progress had been made and that he planned to meet with the Russian leader again. The meeting is expected to take place in Budapest, Hungary.
International Context
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed his readiness to assist Hungary in organizing the upcoming meeting between the US and Russian leaders.
During the meeting, Trump emphasized his view of Zelenskyy as a strong and decisive leader and noted the importance of joint US-Ukrainian efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region.
Zelenskyy and Trump Meet at the White House
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss crucial issues, including military support for Ukraine, the delivery of weapons, and potential steps toward initiating peace talks with Russia. Following the meeting, Trump planned to return to his residence in Palm Beach, Florida.
Potential Tomahawk Missile Transfer A major point of discussion was the possibility of supplying Ukraine with American Tomahawk cruise missiles. While Trump had previously indicated that the decision to provide these missiles was “essentially finalized,” he emphasized that the United States maintains large stockpiles and must ensure they are not fully depleted.
This issue remains one of the most closely watched outcomes of the meeting, signaling continued U.S. support for Ukraine’s defense capabilities while carefully balancing strategic stockpiles.
