Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faces significant challenges as he prepares to meet with President Donald Trump on Friday to address the ongoing war with Russia and discuss a proposed economic development deal. Central to the discussions is a potential agreement bolstering U.S.-Ukraine cooperation, including access to mineral resources and security guarantees amid growing tensions. However, uncertainties surround the outcome, and questions linger about the United States' commitment to Ukraine's defense.
The meeting comes as the Ukrainian leader seeks stronger U.S. support in countering Russian aggression. While Zelenskyy aims to secure solid security guarantees, President Trump has signaled hesitance, suggesting European nations should take the lead in protecting Ukraine. During a meeting earlier this week with French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump remarked, “I’m not going to make security guarantees beyond very much. We’re going to have Europe do that.”
The proposed economic agreement includes the creation of a co-managed U.S.-Ukraine investment fund to spearhead postwar reconstruction. According to draft text obtained by reporters, the fund seeks to finance Ukraine’s rebuilding needs while ensuring U.S. commercial interests gain a foothold in the nation’s economy. Revenue generated from Ukraine’s natural resources would be split, with 50% allocated to the fund. Ukrainian officials emphasized that the U.S. would not directly own Ukraine’s resources but could recoup some of the costs of wartime assistance through this arrangement.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy’s domestic and international standing remains a topic of debate. Although his government has faced criticism, many Ukrainian analysts suggest that recent U.S. diplomatic outreach to Russia has bolstered his public support at home. However, President Trump’s evolving approach to Russia—marked by renewed diplomatic ties and commercial discussions—has raised concerns among Ukrainian supporters. Critics argue these actions amount to concessions, as Russia has yet to make meaningful compromises on territorial disputes or aggression in Ukraine.
James Rushton, a foreign policy analyst based in Kyiv, noted that ordinary Ukrainians feel disillusioned by the Trump administration’s shift from “peace through strength” to what they interpret as “appeasement through weakness.” He highlighted how Trump initially proposed harsher sanctions on Russia and strategies to undercut its economy but has since moved toward reestablishing ties without securing tangible concessions from Moscow.
During his travel to Washington for the meeting, Zelenskyy stopped in Dublin to meet with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin. His visit followed discussions between President Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who hosted European leaders to strategize next steps in resolving the Ukraine crisis. When asked about peacekeeping efforts, Trump stated that the focus must first be on reaching a ceasefire, adding, “We have to make a deal first. Right now, we don’t have a deal.”
One key point of contention remains Russia’s trustworthiness in honoring a potential agreement. While Trump expressed confidence in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s reliability, many remain skeptical. “I think he’ll keep his word,” Trump said, referencing his interactions with Putin. However, Russian officials reiterated opposition to European forces participating in any peacekeeping missions, complicating discussions further.
In Kyiv, Zelenskyy underscored the need for binding security guarantees, stating, “If we don’t get security guarantees, we won’t have a ceasefire. Nothing will work.” The proposed agreement’s vague language on U.S. military and security support has left Ukrainian officials seeking more clarity.
The stakes for Ukraine remain high, as Zelenskyy balances securing critical support from the U.S. with addressing domestic pressures and international diplomacy. With tensions escalating and no clear resolution in sight, the outcome of his meeting with Trump could significantly shape the future of the conflict and Ukraine’s recovery efforts.
We’d like to hear your thoughts: Should the U.S. take a leading role in guaranteeing Ukraine’s security, or should Europe bear the responsibility? Share your comments below.
