On a long U.S. visit, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenski met former President Donald Trump in Washington, arguing that the war can end now and urging the U.S. to send Tomahawk missiles.
Arrival with Defense Executives
Zelenski arrived in Washington on Thursday, holding a briefing with representatives from U.S. defense companies, including Raytheon, makers of the Patriot system.
The visits included talks with energy sector officials and concluded at the Blair House, the president’s guest residence, with heightened security measures.
Delayed Summit Turns Into Working Lunch
The meeting with Trump and aides began over 20 minutes late, taking the form of a working lunch, according to Washington media.
Trump opened the session, then Zelenski thanked him for U.S. intervention in the Middle East and mentioned ending the conflict with Russia.
Zelenski Urges End to the War
“This is a good moment to end the war in Ukraine,” Zelenski said, stressing that Putin is not prepared to conclude the war, but U.S. help could win it.
He stated that Russia suffers enormous economic and human losses, and that Trump and he share the same objective of ending the conflict.
Triple Talks Likely, but Separate Options Remain
Journalists asked whether Zelenski would attend the next Trump‑Putin meeting. Trump replied that a three‑way meeting was possible, but separate meetings could also take place.
Both Ukraine and Russia were said to want the war ended, so action must simply be taken.
Zelenski Dishes on Biden vs. Trump
Zelenski told reporters that Trump has a greater chance to finish the war than Biden, who he described as incompetent.
He praised Trump’s ability to secure a ceasefire in the Middle East and said he hopes Trump can accomplish the same for Ukraine.
U.S. Consideration of Tomahawk Missiles
When asked about sending Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, Trump said the U.S. would do so if needed, but emphasized the need for a broader array of support, including drones.
Zelenski noted that Ukraine has many drones but lacks Tomahawks, and that U.S. production capacity could strengthen American output.
Trump indicated interest in Ukrainian drones and reiterated that the focus should be on finishing the war.
