Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Trump Tower in New York on Friday, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, declared it was time for Russia’s war in Ukraine to be resolved, adding that both he and Zelensky shared a “common view” that the conflict must end and that Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot win.
Despite Trump’s past criticisms of Zelensky during the campaign, the two leaders stood side by side as they discussed their mutual desire for peace. Trump also noted his “very good relationship” with both Zelensky and Putin, asserting that if he wins the 2024 election, he could resolve the war quickly. Zelensky, in turn, expressed hope that Trump’s involvement would contribute to his “victory plan” for Ukraine.
The meeting, which had not been expected until the last minute, took place during Zelensky’s six-day visit to the U.S., where he has been engaging with American officials to secure continued support for Ukraine. Zelensky later extended an invitation for Trump to visit Ukraine, which Trump accepted.
The encounter followed weeks of tension between Zelensky and Republicans, some of whom have been critical of U.S. military aid to Ukraine. Trump has repeatedly questioned the ongoing financial support for Ukraine, though during the meeting he acknowledged the importance of ending the war.
This marks a notable moment in Trump’s campaign, as he continues to outline his foreign policy approach, including a promise to prioritize resolving the Ukraine-Russia war if he is elected. However, Zelensky’s visit to the U.S. has not been without controversy, with some Republicans accusing him of aligning too closely with Democrats during his trip.
Zelensky, meanwhile, continues to pressure Russia through his diplomatic efforts, bolstered by a fresh $7.9 billion military aid package from the Biden administration. As the war rages on in Ukraine, with continued Russian drone attacks causing casualties, both Trump and Zelensky are focused on the future of the conflict and how it could be brought to an end.
It looks like Trump is already the president again, doesn’t it?
