Trump and Zelenskyy Meet in Rome Amid Stalled Peace Talks
Former President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met in Rome, marking their first encounter since a public spat earlier this year, amid ongoing stalled peace efforts between Russia and Ukraine.
During their attendance at Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome, former President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had what was described as a ‘very productive discussion.’ This meeting comes on the heels of a tense Oval Office exchange in February, which led to Zelenskyy abruptly leaving the White House. The Ukrainian president later characterized the incident as detrimental to both parties involved.
The encounter in Rome is particularly significant as it occurs against the backdrop of faltering peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Both leaders have been vocal about their positions, with Trump recently using his Truth Social platform to urge an end to the conflict, stating that most major points for a deal have been agreed upon. He emphasized the need for high-level meetings to finalize an agreement and end the ‘cruel and senseless war.’
Trump has not shied away from critiquing both Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He expressed dissatisfaction with Putin’s continued military actions against Kyiv and criticized Zelenskyy’s stance on not recognizing Russian control over Crimea. Despite these criticisms, the White House remains hopeful about Trump’s potential to facilitate a resolution to the conflict.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this optimism, noting that recent meetings have been productive and that the war is ’endable’ if both sides can reach an agreement. As peace talks remain at a standstill, the international community watches closely, hoping that this latest interaction between Trump and Zelenskyy might pave the way for renewed efforts to bring peace to the region.