TLDR;
This text outlines a potential shift in US strategy regarding the war in Ukraine, focusing on a peace deal rather than an immediate ceasefire. Key points include:
- Trump's focus on a lasting peace deal aligns with Putin's views.
- Zelensky is scheduled to meet with Trump in Washington, D.C.
- Trump aims to arrange a meeting between US, Ukrainian, and Russian leaders soon.
- Key issues include the Donbas region and potential security guarantees for Ukraine.
Peace Deal Over Ceasefire
US President Donald Trump believes that prioritizing a lasting peace deal is the optimal approach to ending the war in Ukraine, rather than initiating with a ceasefire. This stance appears to reflect the views of Russian President Vladimir Putin, following their meeting in Alaska.
Zelensky Heads to US
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to meet with the US president in Washington, DC, on Monday. A European leader is expected to participate in the meeting as well.
Next Steps
Following the meeting with Zelensky, Trump intends to organize a meeting involving the US, Ukrainian, and Russian leaders as early as next Friday, according to European officials.
Key Issues
After the Alaska summit, Trump indicated that Putin seeks control of the entire eastern Ukrainian Donbas region in return for freezing the current front lines. Western leaders also discussed potential NATO-like security guarantees for Ukraine, a proposal that the Kremlin is likely to strongly oppose.