U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed he will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in person on Wednesday during the NATO summit in The Hague. The announcement, made aboard Air Force One en route to the summit, follows weeks of uncertainty over whether Zelenskyy would receive a face-to-face audience with Trump.
White House insiders say the meeting addresses Zelenskyy’s concerns about marginalization—his attendance at the summit was initially limited to receptions, with no guarantee of one‑on‑one time with Trump. The pair last met in April at Pope Francis’s funeral, their first in-person encounter since a tense Oval Office exchange in February.
Discussion points will likely include Ukraine’s request to purchase U.S. air defence systems—potentially including Patriot missiles—alongside proposals for fresh sanctions on Russia and a proposed oil-price cap, as Kyiv seeks stronger backing in its nearly fourth year of war.
Why It Matters
- Strategic optics: The face-to-face session signals U.S. engagement with Ukraine amid international focus shifting to other hotspots like Iran and Israel.
- Military backing: Zelenskyy is expected to push for air-defence capabilities to counter growing missile and drone threats.
- Economic pressure on Russia: Talks may cover tougher sanctions and efforts to reduce Russia’s oil revenue with a lower export price cap.
As NATO members commit to a historic boost in defence spending—meeting Trump’s demand for a 5% GDP benchmark—this bilateral meeting offers Ukraine an opportunity to reaffirm U.S. support. The outcome could influence whether additional military packages are authorized.
