PARIS/LONDON – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy used his first meeting with Donald Trump since the U.S. election to emphasize the need for security guarantees in any peace deal with Russia, according to sources familiar with the Dec. 7 discussions.
Hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, the meeting aimed to build a rapport with Trump, whose pledge to swiftly end the conflict has raised concerns in Kyiv about potential concessions to Moscow. The three leaders spoke for 35 minutes without advisers, discussing broad principles rather than detailed proposals. Trump reiterated his desire for an immediate ceasefire and a rapid end to the war, according to multiple sources.
“Peace needs guarantees because a ceasefire alone isn’t enough. Putin could break it again without proper assurances,” a Ukrainian official said, noting that Trump appeared to be carefully considering the details.
Zelenskiy has consistently pushed for Ukraine to receive security guarantees and NATO membership to prevent future Russian aggression. While softening his stance on the complete expulsion of Russian forces, the Ukrainian leader has acknowledged the need for diplomacy to save lives.
Macron and Zelenskiy presented a united front during the meeting, avoiding pressuring Trump directly but underscoring the critical role of U.S. support. Macron also emphasized that European powers have significantly contributed to Ukraine’s defense and are willing to share more of the security burden.
Officials briefed on the meeting noted that Zelenskiy believes a lasting peace would require a strong stance from Washington, as Russian President Vladimir Putin views Trump as one of the few leaders capable of influencing him.
Macron and Zelenskiy also highlighted that Putin’s current position is weaker than in previous years, citing setbacks like the collapse of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This argument was used to advocate for a tougher U.S. stance on Moscow in any future peace negotiations.
The meeting, described as cordial, offered a glimpse into the complexities of potential peace talks involving Russia, with the role of the United States remaining pivotal but uncertain.