At Monday’s meeting, European leaders and Ukraine aim to keep Trump from yielding to Putin’s demands.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may not arrive in Washington alone on Monday. As he prepares to meet U.S. President Donald Trump, European leaders are considering sending a senior figure to back him. Their goal: prevent Ukraine from facing pressure to concede to Russia in ongoing peace talks.
Why Europe Is Worried
The White House meeting comes just days after Trump’s Alaska summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Both leaders called that event “historic,” but it produced no clear progress in ending the three-year Russia–Ukraine war.
For Zelensky, this trip is especially sensitive. It is his first visit to the U.S. since February, when a tense exchange ended with Trump accusing him of being “disrespectful.” European officials fear a repeat of that confrontation.
Europe’s Backup Plan
According to Politico, European leaders may send either Finnish President Alexander Stubb or NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to Washington. Both have good personal ties with Trump and could act as mediators. Their presence would help ensure that Europe has a voice in the talks and that Zelensky is not cornered.
Concerns Over Trump’s Position
European leaders were unsettled by Trump’s warm reception of Putin in Alaska. They now worry Zelensky will face a tougher welcome at the White House.
Diplomatic sources told AFP that Trump has already signaled support for a Russian plan. It would give Moscow full control of two Ukrainian regions while freezing battle lines in others where Russia holds only partial ground. One proposal even suggested ceding all of Donetsk. Zelensky has firmly rejected the idea.
What Comes Next
Despite calling his meeting with Putin “very productive,” Trump has shifted responsibility onto Kyiv. He has said it is now up to Zelensky to secure a peace deal. Trump has also suggested holding a three-way summit with Putin and Zelensky, though Moscow has not confirmed any commitment.
For Europe, the immediate priority is clear: support Zelensky in Washington and block any deal that forces Ukraine to hand territory to Russia.
