Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is drawing clear lines as he heads into a high-stakes White House meeting with President Donald Trump on Monday. In a series of posts following calls with Trump and European leaders, Zelenskyy laid out non-negotiable demands for what he called “real peace” with Russia—warning that anything less would only invite further aggression.
“Killings must stop as soon as possible,” Zelenskyy wrote. “The fire must cease on the battlefield, in the sky, and against our ports. All prisoners of war and abducted children must be returned.” He stressed that thousands of Ukrainians remain in Russian captivity and vowed that international pressure must remain until Moscow ends its occupation.
At the same time, Zelenskyy cautioned that Russia could escalate attacks in the coming days to strengthen its bargaining position. “Knowing Russia’s treachery, we anticipate they may try to increase strikes to create more favorable political circumstances for talks,” he said.
Trump, fresh off a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, echoed the need for a lasting solution. Writing on Truth Social, he argued that only a full peace agreement—not another fragile ceasefire—could end the 3½-year war. “If Monday’s meeting with Zelenskyy goes well,” Trump added, “a future meeting with Putin could save millions of lives.”
European leaders have thrown their weight behind the peace push, but insisted Ukraine’s sovereignty cannot be compromised. In a joint statement, figures including Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, and Ursula von der Leyen declared: “International borders must not be changed by force. No limitations should be placed on Ukraine’s armed forces or its cooperation with partners.”
For Zelenskyy, returning to the Oval Office carries extra weight—his first since a public clash with Trump in February. Now, with war still raging, the outcome of Monday’s meeting could determine whether Ukraine’s demands for justice and security take center stage in the global peace effort.