Washington: In a closely watched diplomatic meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the White House on Monday, signaling renewed efforts toward a potential peace deal with Russia.
“We love them,” Trump told reporters when asked about his message to the Ukrainian people, following a firm handshake with Zelensky at the White House entrance.
The visit comes amid growing global pressure to resolve the ongoing war in Ukraine. While details of the private talks remain undisclosed, Trump expressed optimism, stating, “The war will end,” hinting at possible diplomatic breakthroughs ahead.
In a lighter moment, Trump complimented Zelensky’s attire — a smart black jacket — a subtle nod to criticism the Ukrainian leader faced earlier this year from right-wing media for not wearing a suit during a previous visit that ended in tension and a shouting match.The high-stakes meeting underscores the strategic importance of U.S.-Ukraine relations, as Washington seeks to balance support for Kyiv while exploring diplomatic avenues to de-escalate the conflict with Moscow.