President Donald Trump will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office later this week, joined by a high-powered delegation of European leaders determined to keep Western support for Kyiv intact.
According to officials, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will accompany Zelensky in what is being described as a make-or-break moment for Ukraine’s war effort.
???? Trump’s leverage – The U.S. president has questioned the scale of American involvement in Ukraine, insisting that Europe must take on a larger share of the burden. Sources close to Trump suggest he may push Zelensky toward peace talks with Moscow, a stance that has rattled NATO allies.
???? Zelensky’s plea – The Ukrainian leader is expected to present fresh intelligence on Russian troop buildups and argue that any reduction in U.S. military and financial backing would endanger not only Ukraine but Europe’s security as a whole.
???? Europe’s message – By appearing at Zelensky’s side, European leaders hope to project unity and reassure Trump that NATO allies are committed to defense spending and burden-sharing. Diplomats privately admit, however, that their approach may include adopting a conciliatory tone to secure Trump’s cooperation.
???? Markets and security – Energy markets reacted cautiously ahead of the summit, with natural gas futures rising amid uncertainty over U.S. policy. NATO planners confirmed they are reviewing scenarios in case talks collapse or Russia escalates fighting in Donbas.
The Oval Office meeting is set for Thursday, with analysts warning that the outcome could shape the trajectory of the war—and the credibility of Western alliances—for years to come.
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