Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Donald Trump for his “unwavering determination,” describing their talks as “good and productive.” The newly elected U.S. President stated that Zelensky is interested in a “deal” to end the war with Russia following their meeting in Paris to discuss the conflict’s future.
French President Emmanuel Macron hosted the talks with Zelensky and Trump at the Élysée Palace, as concerns grow in Kyiv about the stance of the new U.S. administration.
Trump, who had previously criticized the billions of dollars in military aid sent to Ukraine, boasted that he could end the conflict within 24 hours.
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“Zelensky and Ukraine want to agree to stop the madness. There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin. Too many lives are being needlessly lost, too many families destroyed, and if it continues, it could escalate into something far worse,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
Just hours after the “Big Three” meeting, the outgoing Biden administration announced a new $988 million military aid package for Ukraine.
The Pentagon stated that the package includes drones, ammunition for HIMARS precision rocket launchers, equipment, spare parts for artillery systems, tanks, and armored vehicles.
In Ukraine, concerns persist that Trump might push for unpopular concessions to achieve peace. Zelensky stressed that any resolution with Russia must be just.
“We all want peace, but for us, it is crucial that peace is fair for all and that Russia, Putin, or any other aggressor cannot return in the future,” Zelensky stated.
“The most important thing is a fair peace and strong security guarantees for Ukraine,” he added.
Zelensky expressed gratitude to Trump for his “unwavering determination,” again describing their talks as “good and productive.”
The meeting between Zelensky and Trump, held just before both attended the reopening ceremony of Notre-Dame Cathedral, marked the first face-to-face encounter between Zelensky and the successful American businessman-turned-politician, now preparing to assume the U.S. presidency for a second term.
This encounter also provided a unique opportunity for Macron to gain insight into what Trump’s second administration might look like when he takes office in January.
Trump’s visit to Paris was his first international trip since his election victory on November 5.
A particularly notable moment caught media attention when Trump and Macron exchanged several embraces and handshakes on the steps of the Élysée Palace entrance, as reported by France24.
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Source: Kurir, Photo: EPA Sarah Meyssonnier Pool