Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office in Washington on Monday. Trump also noted that, "if things go as planned," a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin will also be scheduled.
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Fears of Another Political Ambush
Western media reports indicated that Zelensky is aware of the risk of once again facing a “political ambush” during his upcoming meeting with Trump in Washington.
A report by a British news channel stated that Zelensky feels compelled to appear as a “willing participant” in the negotiations—out of fear of being portrayed as an obstacle to peace efforts.
Summit Details and Participants
According to the report, the summit is scheduled to take place on August 18, with the attendance of U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who previously had a verbal altercation with Zelensky.
A European leader is also expected to attend, though their identity has not yet been revealed.
Lingering Memories from Past Encounter
The British report emphasized that “bitter memories” of Zelensky’s previous encounter in February at the White House will weigh heavily on him this time.
Back then, Trump reportedly harshly criticized Zelensky, urging him to agree to a ceasefire and stop attacking Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Vance described Zelensky as an “ungrateful activist” who promotes the Democratic Party’s agenda.
Trump: "The Agreement Is in Zelensky’s Hands"
In a separate interview with Fox News on Friday, Trump stated that a resolution to the Ukraine conflict is now in the hands of Zelensky and European countries. He stressed that Zelensky “must acknowledge” that he is losing significantly in the war against Russia.
“As you know, this matter remains unsettled,” Trump said.
“Ukraine must agree to a deal. I mean, President Zelensky has to accept that. It’s a horrific war, and he’s losing a lot.”
Trump-Putin Meeting in Alaska
Earlier on Friday, Trump held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, at the Elmendorf-Richardson military base. The meeting, held in a “3 vs. 3” format, lasted two hours and 45 minutes.
