Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed peace terms, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown during their Oval Office meeting. Trump’s ultimatum, delivered via social media, called for Ukraine to give up Crimea and abandon ambitions to join NATO as prerequisites for peace with Russia.
Trump’s Bold Demands
On Sunday evening, Trump shared his demands through Truth Social, suggesting that Zelensky “could end the war with Russia almost immediately” by conceding Crimea and abstaining from NATO membership. He referenced Crimea’s annexation in 2014, stating, “No getting back Obama-given Crimea, and no going into NATO by Ukraine. Some things never change!”
Within 90 minutes, Zelensky responded decisively on X (formerly Twitter), denouncing Trump’s suggestion of Ukrainian responsibility in resolving the war. “Russia must end this war, which it itself started,” Zelensky declared, emphasizing that Ukrainians are fighting to defend their independence and homeland.
Ukraine’s Position on Crimea
Zelensky has reiterated that Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, remains a critical, non-negotiable issue for Ukraine. “Of course, Crimea should not have been given up then, just as Ukrainians did not give up Kyiv, Odesa, or Kharkiv after 2022,” he stated. His comments underscore Ukraine’s continued resolve to resist Russian aggression and reclaim all occupied territories.
European Leaders Rally Around Zelensky
Amid fears that Zelensky could face undue pressure from Trump during the Monday meeting, leaders from Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Finland have expressed their support for Ukraine. They are expected to join Zelensky in Washington as a display of solidarity, ensuring the meeting does not mirror their previous heated encounter in February.
Retired French General Dominique Trinquand commented, “The Europeans are very afraid of a repeat of the Oval Office scene and want to support Mr. Zelensky to the hilt. It’s a power struggle that might work with Trump.”
Putin’s Role in Shaping Peace Talks
Just days before the White House meeting, Trump held a two-and-a-half-hour summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. While no agreement was reached, Trump emphasized that the meeting was “extremely productive,” opening the door to further discussions regarding a settlement in the ongoing conflict.
Speculation is growing that concessions like Ukraine relinquishing parts of the Donbas region—areas currently under Kyiv’s control—may be on the negotiation table to appease Russian demands. Zelensky, however, has stood firmly against any resolution dictated by force, calling for a ceasefire as a first step toward peace. “Putin does not want to stop the killing, but he must do it,” Zelensky stressed.
What’s Next?
Trump and Zelensky are scheduled to meet at 1 pm ET on Monday, with a bilateral discussion and multilateral meetings including EU leaders later that afternoon. Observers are closely watching whether Zelensky’s firm stance can withstand external pressure, as geopolitical strategies unfold.
The global implications of this extraordinary diplomatic faceoff could redefine military alliances, shaping the outcome of Europe’s most perilous conflict in decades.
