Can Joint Efforts with the US and European Allies Lead Russia to Genuine Peace? Zelensky's Hope Ahead of Key Meeting

Washington, Aug 18 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky once again urged Russia to halt the conflict it initiated, expressing optimism that a cohesive effort with the United States and European allies could pressure Moscow into pursuing a genuine peace agreement.

Zelensky's statements were made upon his arrival in Washington, supported by key European leaders, for a crucial meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House. The agenda is likely to center on Ukraine's ongoing war with Russia and the increasing worries regarding pressure on Kyiv to conform to Moscow's peace terms.

Utilizing the social media platform X, Zelensky shared his arrival and emphasized the importance of the visit: "I have landed in Washington. Tomorrow, I will be meeting with President Trump and engaging with European leaders. I appreciate POTUS for the invitation. We all have a mutual goal to end this war quickly and effectively, ensuring that the peace is enduring."

He further remarked, "Unlike years past, when Ukraine was compelled to surrender Crimea and parts of our East—specifically Donbas—and Putin exploited it as a launchpad for renewed aggression. Or the 1994 assurances of 'security guarantees' that ultimately proved ineffective. Certainly, Crimea should never have been conceded—just as Ukrainians did not relinquish Kyiv, Odesa, or Kharkiv after 2022."

Emphasizing recent military advancements, Zelensky noted, "Our forces are achieving victories in the Donetsk and Sumy regions. I am confident in our ability to defend Ukraine, ensure security, and that our citizens will always appreciate President Trump, everyone in America, and every partner and ally for their support and invaluable assistance."

"Russia must cease this war, which it initiated. I am hopeful that our combined strength with America and our European allies will drive Russia towards authentic peace," he stated emphatically.

On the eve of the meeting, President Trump shared on Truth Social, "A significant day at the White House tomorrow. Never before have so many European leaders convened at once. It is my great honor to host them!"

Zelensky is accompanied by numerous distinguished European figures, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

European officials have voiced concerns that Trump might leverage the discussions at the White House to pressure Zelensky into making concessions that align with demands from Russian President Vladimir Putin made during their recent summit in Alaska. These demands reportedly include Ukraine giving up its claim to Crimea and agreeing to never join NATO.

European leaders hope that Monday's summit will clarify Washington's stance and provide insights into any potential peace framework that includes credible security guarantees for Ukraine.

Prior to the meeting, President Macron highlighted the need for unity: "If we display weakness in front of Russia today, we are setting the stage for future conflicts," he cautioned.

Macron, along with other European leaders who participated in a "coalition of the willing" video conference before traveling to Washington, underscored the aim of establishing a robust and lasting peace that honors Ukraine's territorial integrity.

The German government reiterated this sentiment in a statement detailing the summit's main agenda items, which encompass long-term security guarantees for Ukraine, territorial concerns, and the continuation of military and financial support.

“This also necessitates maintaining pressure through sanctions,” the statement concluded.