Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is heading to Washington on Monday to meet with President Trump. His goal: stop the U.S. from making any deals with Russia that leave Ukraine out.
This comes right after Trump’s meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska. That summit didn’t end in a deal, but it showed Trump wants one—and fast. Zelenskyy’s worried the U.S. and Russia could try to wrap up the war on their own terms. He’s going to D.C. to make sure that doesn’t happen.
The Risk: A Deal Without Ukraine
Russia’s latest offer is to freeze the war if Ukraine gives up land. Zelenskyy immediately said no. He’s not about to hand over parts of the country that people have died defending.
But President Trump is pushing for a big peace deal—quickly. He’s not focused on a ceasefire first. That’s dangerous for Ukraine. Without a ceasefire, Russia keeps attacking while negotiations drag on. Ukraine loses leverage, and lives.
Zelenskyy Needs Guarantees
Zelenskyy isn’t just going to smile for cameras. He needs real commitments. Weapons. Money. Security guarantees. Not vague promises—solid support. Without it, Ukraine risks losing not just ground, but allies.
He also has to show strength at home. Ukrainians are tired of the war, but they won’t accept peace if it means giving land to Russia. Troops on the front are watching. They expect their president to stand firm.
Europe’s Worried Too
European leaders—especially in Germany, France, and Poland—are nervous. They fear President Trump will give too much to Putin. Some may even send officials to D.C. during Zelenskyy’s visit, just to show support. They want Trump to know Ukraine isn’t alone.
Trump’s Unpredictable
Trump likes making deals. He likes drama. That makes this risky. One wrong move, and Ukraine could be left with nothing. Or worse—forced into a bad deal.
Zelenskyy has to walk a fine line. Push too hard, and Trump might shut down. Push too little, and Ukraine gets sidelined.
This Meeting Matters
This isn’t just another diplomatic visit. This is about whether the U.S. still backs Ukraine or wants out. If Trump leans toward Putin, it could send the message that Ukraine doesn’t matter anymore—and that borders can be redrawn by force.
Zelenskyy’s job is to remind Trump—and the world—that what happens in Ukraine affects everyone. If Russia gets what it wants, other countries might be next.
No Time for Talk
Zelenskyy can’t go back to Kyiv empty-handed. People are watching. They want answers. If he shows up with nothing, it’ll shake confidence at home and abroad.
This war won’t end on Monday. But this meeting could decide how it ends—and who gets to decide.
