Zelenskyy Advocates for Just Peace with Trump during Historic Paris Meeting
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for a just settlement with Russia during a meeting with U.S. president-elect Donald Trump on Saturday, amid rising concerns in Kyiv over the direction of the incoming administration. The discussions took place in Paris, where French President Emmanuel Macron hosted a three-way dialogue at the Élysée Palace.
The stakes were high as Zelenskyy's first face-to-face meeting with Trump since his election victory unfolded just hours after the Biden administration announced a significant $988 million military assistance package for Ukraine—funds aimed at bolstering the nation's defense capabilities against Russian aggression. The Pentagon detailed that the package would feature drones, precision munitions for HIMARS rocket launchers, and essential equipment for artillery systems and armored vehicles.
As concerns lingered over Trump's past comments suggesting he could end the conflict in Ukraine swiftly, Zelenskyy made it clear that a durable peace was non-negotiable. "We all want peace, but it is very important for us that the peace is just for all of us, and that Russia or any other aggressor has no possibility of ever returning," Zelenskyy stated, underscoring his demand for strong security guarantees for Ukraine.
Despite Trump’s previously skeptical remarks regarding U.S. military support to Ukraine, Zelenskyy acknowledged Trump’s commitment, referring to the talks as "good and productive." This high-level meeting allowed Macron to gauge the future of transatlantic relations as Trump prepares to assume office in January 2024.
In a symbolic show of camaraderie, Trump and Macron exchanged warm greetings, shaking hands and embracing multiple times on the steps of the French presidential palace before attending the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, a significant event given the cathedral's devastation by fire in 2019, during Trump’s first tenure as president.
"It seems like the world is going a little crazy right now, and we will be talking about that,” Trump remarked ahead of the meeting, alluding to the unpredictable geopolitical landscape.
Zelenskyy is particularly alert to Trump's campaign pledges that could endanger Ukraine’s interests, including hints at forced negotiations with Russia, alarming many European leaders. Macron expressed on social media his commitment to continuing joint efforts toward peace and security, given the current tumultuous climate in Europe.
In addition to Trump’s immediate aides accompanying him on this significant trip, tech mogul Elon Musk was also present during crucial discussions, illustrating the level of scrutiny and attention surrounding Trump’s return to international diplomacy.
The meeting reflects the complex nature of U.S.-European relations as Trump reclaims his position in American politics, raising questions about future commitments to Ukraine amidst ever-shifting alliances.
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