On August 18th, local time, Ukrainian President Zelensky arrived at the White House to hold bilateral talks with US President Trump, followed by a joint meeting with European and NATO leaders to discuss issues including Ukraine.
Image source: Screenshot from CNN report
Episode: Zelensky visits the White House again in a black suit
On August 18th, local time, Ukrainian President Zelensky arrived at the White House and was greeted by US President Trump. The two held bilateral talks in the Oval Office. Subsequently, Trump and Zelensky met with UK Prime Minister Starmer, French President Macron, German Chancellor Merz, Italian Prime Minister Meloni, Finnish President Stub, European Commission President Von Der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Lute, etc.
This is Zelensky’s second visit to the White House after February 28th. During his previous visit, Zelensky had a fierce argument with Trump and US Vice President Pence and left unhappily.
During this meeting, US media noticed a “relaxed and happy moment” in the Oval Office, as Zelensky, instead of his usual green military sweater, chose to wear a black suit, which attracted attention. “You look great in that suit,” one person noticed.
Trump added, “I said the same thing.”
Zelensky replied, “You’re wearing the same suit. I’ve changed, you haven’t.”
Image source: Screenshot from CNN report
Trump: A trilateral meeting between the US, Russia, and Ukraine may be held
According to reports, Trump said during the meeting that he expects a trilateral meeting between the US, Russia, and Ukraine to be held. “I think it’s more about when than if.” Trump also said he would call Russian President Putin soon after the meeting to discuss arranging a meeting. However, some sources claimed that Trump暂停了与欧洲领导人和泽连斯基的谈判，以便给普京打电话，但这一说法暂未得到证实。
Zelensky: “Everything” needs to be ensured for safety
Zelensky said he had a “very good conversation” with Trump earlier that day, and the two discussed safety and humanitarian issues. He expressed openness to a trilateral meeting with Trump and Putin. When asked about what security guarantees he hopes the US can provide, Zelensky said “everything” is needed.
He emphasized that Ukraine needs a powerful army, including weapons, manpower, training, and intelligence, and all of which will depend on “great powers” such as the United States and other allies.
Zelensky pointed out that US weapons are crucial to Ukraine’s defense, such as the urgently needed Patriot air defense system.
In addition, Zelensky also stated that he is willing to hold presidential elections once the conflict between Ukraine and Russia ends.
According to reports, after meeting with Trump, Zelensky said he had a good discussion with him. “We just had a good conversation with Trump, perhaps the best one yet.” Zelensky said he showed Trump several key details on the map during the meeting, and expressed hope to find solutions on all issues including territorial issues. He also indicated that important issues such as territorial exchanges will be directly discussed by leaders under Trump’s mediation.
“Major European allies are ready to stand up to ensure Ukraine’s security”
UK Prime Minister Starmer said that the meeting with Trump could be a “historic step” for Ukraine and European security. Ukraine’s major European allies have “stepped up to the plate” to ensure Ukraine’s security.
NATO Secretary-General Lute pointed out that Trump’s support for providing security guarantees to Ukraine is a “breakthrough” to ensure peace. He also thanked Trump for “breaking the deadlock” and bringing Putin to the negotiating table.
French President Macron said that at least one European leader should attend the meeting with Putin, noting that “when we talk about security guarantees, we are talking about the entire security of the European continent.”