Washington: As European leaders joined Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his return to the White House this week, the unprecedented gathering underscored just how high the stakes in the Russia-Ukraine war have become for the continent’s security. The gathering projected unity in more than one way: Zelenskyy had European heavyweights in his corner after February’s infamous Oval Office dressing down, and the European leaders presented a unified stance on what they expect from any eventual agreement with Russia.
According to Anadolu Agency, the unique spectacle for the cameras saw President Donald Trump give brief opening remarks, followed by Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, NATO chief Mark Rutte, and Finland’s President Alexander Stubb. Both sides were full of praise for each other, marking a shift from the months of tense exchanges since Trump took office in January.
However, analysts suggest the positive atmosphere was just part of the show, as the meeting also exposed deep rifts over ceasefire conditions, security guarantees, and the risk of Ukraine being pressured into territorial concessions. Shelby Magid, deputy director of the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, told Anadolu that the summit was unprecedented, with many leaders showing up on short notice for a meeting with Trump. She cautioned that the next challenge will be securing guarantees to sustain any peace deal, calling it ‘the next big test.’
Magid emphasized that beyond substance, the Washington meeting was about symbolism, with European leaders rushing to Washington to demonstrate unity with Zelenskyy and to be present for discussions directly tied to their core security concerns. Others, however, were less convinced of progress. Ryhor Nizhnikau, senior fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, argued that there is no substantive progress in these talks, attributing the core issue to Donald Trump.
According to Nizhnikau, both Europeans and Ukraine are cautious to avoid provoking the US president, treating him with ‘utmost respect and politeness’ to prevent any adverse reaction. The divide over ceasefire conditions remains a significant issue, with Europe insisting on a ceasefire before further negotiations. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed the importance of a ceasefire, while Trump dismissed its necessity, downplaying one of Europe’s central demands.
Zelenskyy, who had previously called for a ceasefire, avoided repeating those demands, reflecting Trump’s shifting stance. Nizhnikau noted that Trump no longer insists on a ceasefire, instead seeking full peace, a scenario he considers unrealistic. While Trump hinted at providing ‘good protection’ for Ukraine, specifics were lacking. Zelenskyy later announced a proposal to buy US weapons worth $90 billion as part of its security guarantees.
NATO chief Rutte mentioned that a group of 30 countries, including Japan and Australia, is working on developing long-term security guarantees under UK and French leadership. Nizhnikau highlighted the lack of trust in Trump’s word among European nations, as they perceive him as unpredictable. He warned that the growing transatlantic rift could be advantageous for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The stakes for Europe extend beyond Ukraine, with concerns over NATO’s Article 5 protection. Magid echoed these concerns, highlighting Russia’s strategy of exploiting divisions. The talks also shifted to borders and territory, with maps of Ukraine spread across the Oval Office table. Zelenskyy rejected a map suggesting 20% of Ukraine was under Russian occupation, countering that only about 1% was seized during the war.
The issue of territory could be a major sticking point, as Trump’s ‘real estate agent’ mentality clashes with Ukrainian and European positions. Nizhnikau noted that Trump may propose land swaps, which Ukraine and Europe cannot accept. Ultimately, analysts believe Trump is positioning himself to shift responsibility, framing the conflict as a European war. Nizhnikau observed a divergence in approaches, with Trump moving away from the European position.