Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has extended his gratitude to the people and leadership of the United States, expressing hope for continued robust relations. This follows an intense confrontation with U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, which left the diplomatic status between the two nations in a state of uncertainty. This event comes as Zelenskyy arrived in London on Saturday to participate in a summit organized by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, bringing together European leaders.
The summit in London includes leaders from various nations such as France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, and others, alongside key figures like the NATO secretary-general and presidents of the European Commission and European Council. Friday’s heated exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy casts a shadow over Ukraine’s aspirations for reliable U.S. support against ongoing Russian military actions.
In recent developments, Russia has claimed that Ukrainian drones targeted the TurkStream gas pipeline, which is part of the infrastructure channeling Russian gas to Turkey and Europe. The Russian defense ministry reported that drones attempted to hit a compressor station in Krasnodar, continuing a pattern of similar attacks this year. These claims remain unverified, and Ukraine has not commented. Previously, Russia provided nearly 40% of the EU’s pipeline natural gas, but this has largely ended, with Norway and the U.S. stepping in to fill the gap.
On a related note, the French armed forces minister affirmed that France’s nuclear deterrent remains the responsibility of the French president. This declaration comes after President Emmanuel Macron suggested discussions about a potential European nuclear deterrent. The minister emphasized that French nuclear capabilities are designed and produced nationally, with deployment decisions resting solely with the President.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has criticized Trump’s Oval Office behavior towards Zelenskyy, suggesting it marks a troubling shift but reaffirming Germany’s support for Ukraine. She stressed Ukraine’s role as part of a free and democratic Europe, condemning acts of aggression and underscoring commitments to peace.
In Ukraine, a nighttime Russian drone strike on Kharkiv injured 12 civilians, including children. Ukrainian forces reported that 103 out of 154 attack drones were intercepted. Russian spokesperson Maria Zakharova interpreted the Oval Office incident as a failure for Kyiv, maintaining that Russia’s objectives remain unchanged—seeking a demilitarized Ukraine and control over annexed territories.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier condemned Trump’s actions, emphasizing that diplomacy is undermined when negotiating partners are humiliated publicly. Meanwhile, President Macron indicated that if World War III is on the horizon, Russian President Vladimir Putin, not Zelenskyy, is to be blamed. Macron remains hopeful that the U.S. will adhere to its history of defending democracy.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan communicated with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov about the Ukraine conflict, continuing Turkey’s role as a potential mediator, despite previous unsuccessful efforts.
Following the Oval Office incident, Zelenskyy expressed appreciation to the U.S. for its support, mentioning his hope for robust relations with America. Despite coming to the meeting aiming for a mineral deal, Ukraine left with unresolved hopes for a ceasefire. Zelenskyy emphasized the historical bond with the American people, looking forward to continued collaboration.
Arriving ahead of schedule, Zelenskyy plans to meet with British Prime Minister Starmer, following the diplomatic encounter in Washington. Starmer is set to discuss pathways for resolving the conflict and maintaining security in Europe during their bilateral meeting, expedited by the recent tensions with the U.S.
