Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met at the White House on Friday for a tense and candid discussion over the ongoing war in Ukraine. The meeting, which lasted over two hours, highlighted a stark difference in approach between the two leaders.
Zelensky had hoped to secure long-range missiles from the United States to strengthen Ukraine’s position against Russian forces. However, following the meeting, Trump made it clear that he was not prepared to provide such weapons at this time. The U.S. president argued that a ceasefire along the current battle lines would save lives and prevent further devastation.
“Both sides need to make a deal,” Trump told reporters later in West Palm Beach, Florida, emphasizing that the current realities of the conflict made escalation dangerous. “Enough blood has been shed. Both sides should go home, stop the killing, and that should be it.”
Zelensky described the meeting as a “pointed conversation” that could help move the war toward an end, while also noting that the U.S. does not want escalation. He did not comment directly on the Tomahawk missile request but emphasized Ukraine’s continued need for advanced weaponry, including drones, which Kyiv suggested could be supplied to the U.S. in exchange.
European leaders also expressed steadfast support for Ukraine in a virtual call following the White House meeting. Downing Street confirmed that the leaders agreed a just and lasting peace was essential to end the killing. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte participated in the call, and discussions on supporting Ukraine in the lead-up to, and following, a ceasefire are expected to continue this week.
Trump’s remarks come amid ongoing political tension at home. The government shutdown shows no signs of resolution, with Senate GOP leadership insisting Democrats reopen the government before moving forward on healthcare subsidies. Meanwhile, air traffic control facilities are reporting significant staffing shortages, leading to flight delays and operational challenges.
In other policy developments, Trump announced higher tariffs on medium- and heavy-duty trucks, truck parts, and buses, effective November 1. The tariffs include exemptions for Mexico and Canada under the USMCA trade agreement.
The president’s firm stance on the Ukraine conflict contrasts with his earlier shifting views on territorial concessions. While he previously suggested “land swaps” might be necessary, he now advocates for an immediate halt to fighting along existing lines, allowing both sides to claim victory. Zelensky responded cautiously, highlighting that negotiations over Ukrainian territory would be the most difficult aspect of achieving lasting peace.
Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s trust in the United States and expressed hope that Trump would continue to manage complex international situations successfully. “We trust the president that he wants to finish this war,” Zelensky said.