US President-elect Donald Trump stated on Sunday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is eager for a “deal” to conclude the ongoing war with Russia. This statement followed their meeting in Paris, where the future of the conflict was a primary topic of discussion.
French President Emmanuel Macron facilitated three-way discussions with Trump and Zelensky at the Elysee Palace on Saturday. This meeting occurred against a backdrop of rising concerns within Kyiv about the new US administration’s approach to the conflict.
Trump has previously criticized the extensive military assistance being provided to Ukraine, claiming he could resolve the conflict in a mere 24 hours. On his Truth Social platform, Trump remarked, “Zelenskyy (sic) and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness.” He advocated for an immediate ceasefire and the onset of negotiations, emphasizing the tragic loss of lives and the potential for the situation to escalate further.
Shortly after the trialogue, the outgoing administration of President Joe Biden announced a significant military assistance package for Ukraine, totaling $988 million. The package includes drones, precision ammunition for HIMARS rocket launchers, and various equipment for artillery systems, tanks, and armored vehicles, as reported by the Pentagon.
In Ukraine, there are apprehensions that Trump might suggest unpopular concessions as part of a peace deal. Zelensky emphasized the need for any agreement to be just and equitable, stating, “We all want peace. But it is very important for us… that the peace is just for all of us and that Russia, (Russian President Vladimir) Putin or any other aggressor has no possibility of ever returning.” He reiterated the importance of “strong security guarantees for Ukraine.”
Zelensky expressed gratitude to Trump for his “unwavering resolve,” labeling the discussions as “good and productive.” This interaction marked Zelensky’s first in-person meeting with Trump since the latter’s electoral victory. Their meeting coincided with the re-opening ceremony of Notre Dame cathedral, which allowed Macron to glean insights on what a potential second Trump presidency might entail when he takes office in January.
During his visit, which is Trump’s first international trip since winning the election on November 5, he and Macron engaged warmly, sharing handshakes and embraces. Trump received a ceremonial guard of honor despite his status as an incoming leader. He commented, “It seems like the world is going a little crazy right now, and we will be talking about that.”
Despite past tensions, Trump praised his relationship with Macron, recalling their previous successful collaborations. Macron welcomed Trump to the Notre Dame re-opening, reminiscing about Trump’s supportive response to the cathedral’s destructive fire in 2019 during his first term. Macron also conveyed a commitment to continued joint efforts for peace and security via social media.
While European allies have tended to favor Biden’s approach regarding the Middle East crisis, Trump is expected to adopt a stance that aligns the United States even more closely with Israel.
