In Washington, President Donald Trump expressed optimism that the conflict in Ukraine, initiated by Russia, might soon reach a conclusion. This sentiment emerged during his discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron on the war’s third anniversary. However, Macron emphasized the importance of ensuring that any agreement with Russia does not equate to Ukraine’s surrender.
The meeting between the two leaders took place against a backdrop of complex transatlantic relations, as Trump’s reformed American foreign policy seemingly sidelines European diplomatic influence amid efforts to hastily conclude the conflict in Ukraine. Despite their diplomatic exchanges at the White House, the U.S. and France found themselves at odds in the United Nations regarding resolutions that label Russia as the aggressor.
Trump spoke broadly about the state of the conflict, expressing confidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin would agree to European peacekeepers in Ukraine. “Yeah, he will accept it,” Trump assured reporters, noting his discussions with Putin. Additionally, Trump conveyed hopes that the war might cease within weeks. He anticipated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would visit the U.S. soon to finalize a deal granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s essential minerals for technological uses. This prospective economic deal is part of efforts to offset the $180 billion in U.S. aid provided to Kyiv since the conflict began.
The potential minerals agreement appeared to be progressing, with Trump suggesting Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington could happen imminently. Amid this, Ukraine is pursuing security guarantees as part of any peace agreement. Though Trump did not clarify the details, he commented that Europe would ensure Ukraine’s security. A French official, speaking anonymously, indicated that Trump did not oppose U.S. security assurances in the potential peace deal, but specifics remained in discussion.
During a press conference, Macron acknowledged the necessity for European nations to enhance their defense capabilities. Nevertheless, he warned against any peace agreement that could undermine Ukrainian sovereignty, emphasizing the need for firm guarantees. Macron, who ceased direct contacts with Putin following atrocities in Bucha, expressed cautious optimism about Trump’s diplomatic efforts leading to productive outcomes.
Vladimir Putin acknowledged the absence of detailed talks about resolving the Ukraine conflict with Trump, nor between Russian and American negotiators in recent meetings. Nonetheless, Russia remained open to engaging European nations in achieving a peace settlement, despite their exclusion from prior discussions.
The war’s anniversary and the high-level talks in Washington occurred as Europe faced a transformative moment in U.S. foreign policy under Trump. This has sparked concerns among diplomats and former officials about America’s shifting global role. Trump’s bold territorial claims and prioritization of “America First” policies create uncertainty over the U.N.’s foundational principles and post-World War II global stability.
Amidst these concerns, Trump plans to meet with other European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. During these exchanges, Trump has criticized Zelenskyy for delaying war negotiations and hesitating on mineral access agreements beneficial to American industries. Zelenskyy, responding on a social media platform, recognized progress but stressed the importance of securing favorable economic deals within a comprehensive security system for Ukraine.
In a public dispute, Trump labeled Zelenskyy a “dictator” and unjustly accused Ukraine of initiating the war, while the invasion was, in fact, instigated by Russia in early 2022. When questioned about labeling Putin a dictator, Trump cautiously refrained, stating he does not use such terms lightly.
While Macron and Trump engaged in diplomatic dialogues, including a G7 virtual meeting, the U.S. diverged from European allies at the U.N., abstaining from a vote on a resolution that identified Russia as the aggressor—a stance promoted by the Europeans. Before meeting Trump, Macron intended to assert the strategic interest for both the U.S. and Europe in maintaining a firm stance against Putin, warning against the credibility implications of perceived weakness.
Despite this divergence, Trump has expressed a willingness for Russia to rejoin the Group of Seven (G7), from which it was expelled following its annexation of Crimea. “I really believe he wants to make a deal,” Trump commented about Putin, although acknowledging he might be mistaken.
