Source : Anadolu
WASHINGTON, D.C. Oct 18, 2025– Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed optimism on Saturday that his marathon two-and-a-half-hour meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump could accelerate efforts to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, highlighting discussions on military support and diplomatic pathways.
Speaking to reporters after the White House sit-down on Friday, Zelenskyy described the conversation as “frank and productive,” focusing on frontline developments, Ukraine’s need for advanced long-range weapons, enhanced air defenses, and potential negotiation tracks. “This dialogue brings us closer to an end,” he said, underscoring the importance of sustained U.S. backing amid Kyiv’s push for Tomahawk cruise missiles and other assets to counter Russian advances.
The encounter, held in the Oval Office amid U.S. and Ukrainian flags, marked a pivotal moment in bilateral ties just weeks into Trump’s second term. Trump, in post-meeting remarks, urged both Ukraine and Russia to “stop where they are” and pursue an immediate ceasefire, signaling a potential shift in Washington’s approach to the conflict that has raged since Moscow’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Sources close to the talks indicated Trump referenced a recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, hinting at a possible upcoming summit that could reshape the battlefield dynamics.
Zelenskyy’s visit comes as Ukraine faces mounting pressure on the eastern front, with Russian forces gaining ground in Donetsk despite Kyiv’s recent incursions into Russia’s Kursk region. The Ukrainian leader’s itinerary also included appeals for economic aid and reconstruction funding, though details on new commitments remained under wraps.
Analysts view the meeting as high-stakes diplomacy, with Trump appearing to balance Zelenskyy’s pleas for escalation against his campaign promises of swift peace. “It’s a delicate dance – support without overcommitment,” noted one European diplomat, speaking anonymously.
The leaders’ exchange drew mixed reactions online, with supporters hailing it as a step toward de-escalation and critics warning of concessions that could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. As the war enters its fourth year, both sides emphasized urgency, with Zelenskyy vowing resilience and Trump reiterating his “America First” framework for global engagements.
