Zelensky Praises Trump’s ‘Strength’ to Force Russia Into Peace Ahead of Washington Summit
Ahead of White House meeting with US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly praised Trump’s ability to deliver peace in the ongoing conflict with Russia, declaring that only the United States has the “strength to force Russia into peace.”
In a post shared on X, Zelensky asserted, “Russia can only be forced into peace through strength, and President Trump has that strength. We have to do everything right to make peace happen.” The message marked a notable show of confidence in Washington just hours before his anticipated talks with the US president and top European leaders.
Zelensky’s remarks came as he thanked US special envoy Keith Kellogg following a joint meeting with European dignitaries. “When peace is discussed for one country in Europe, it means peace for all of Europe. We are ready to continue working with maximum effort to end the war and to ensure reliable security. These are the key issues,” he said.
The Ukrainian leader also highlighted the devastating impact of recent Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, revealing that two children were among those killed and dozens injured while sleeping as Russian forces targeted civilians overnight. “We discussed the battlefield situation and our strong diplomatic capabilities—Ukraine’s and all of Europe’s together with America,” Zelensky added.
The stakes for Monday’s White House meeting could not be higher. It comes just days after Trump’s direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin aimed at seeking a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. Zelensky and Trump last met in the Oval Office during a highly publicized and contentious exchange that captivated global audiences, alongside US Vice President JD Vance.
This time, several key European leaders—including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni—will participate, underscoring the breadth of international attention on the summit’s outcome. Observers will watch closely to see if Zelensky’s optimism in Trump’s “strength” translates into substantive steps towards ending Europe’s deadliest conflict in generations.
