Zelenskyy and Trump's Mar-a-Lago Meeting Shows Mixed Signals on Ukraine Security Guarantees
The Mar-a-Lago meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not materially advance Ukraine-related goals and did not conclude with a bust-up. Zelenskyy's reactions during the encounter ranged from exasperation to maintaining decorum, notably shrugging and laughing when Trump claimed that Russia wants Ukraine to succeed.
Zelenskyy appeared reassured by the prospect of US security guarantees backing Ukraine, although no specifics were provided during the meeting. Ukrainian sources emphasized that Trump's commitment to security guarantees remains a key point, despite his previous pledges followed by retractions.
Trump indicated he could address Ukraine's parliament, but it remains uncertain whether he will follow through on this offer. Progress on diplomatic initiatives includes a 20-point peace plan with 90% agreement, full agreement on US-Ukraine security guarantees, and near agreement on US-Europe-Ukraine security guarantees. This signals ongoing efforts toward security cooperation and potential deployment of European troops.
The peace plan has been narrowed from an initial 26-point framework to 20 points with concessions from Ukraine. Europe and Ukraine expect Trump to apply pressure on Moscow, but progress remains uncertain. Analysts caution that while Trump may desire an end to the war regardless of means, Russian President Vladimir Putin shows no clear indication of wanting to conclude the conflict, and Ukraine strongly resists subjugation.
