US President Donald Trump called for an immediate ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy requested Tomahawk cruise missiles, but Trump emphasized the desire to end the war without such weapons. Both sides expressed optimism for negotiations.
The meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took place on Friday at the White House in Washington and was the third between the two this year. Zelenskyy, who has been in the US capital since Thursday, previously held talks with representatives of the arms company Raytheon, which produces Tomahawk cruise missiles. He discussed production capacities and possible cooperations to strengthen Ukraine's air defense and long-range capabilities, including joint US-Ukrainian production.
In front of journalists, Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Tomahawks: "We have no Tomahawks, that's why we need Tomahawks." He suggested a swap of Ukrainian drones for the US weapons: "Ukraine needs Tomahawks. Ukraine has thousands of drones that might interest the US. We can work together: You can have our drones." Trump replied: "We would much prefer if they didn't need Tomahawks." He called the weapons "very dangerous" and stated that the US would not give away any needed for its own protection. Nevertheless, Trump praised Zelenskyy as a "very strong head of state" and said: "It's an honor to meet with him."
After the conversation, Trump posted a call to end the war on Truth Social: "They should stop where they are." He demanded: "Let both claim victory, let history decide! It's time to stop the killing and make a DEAL. STOP, GO HOME IN PEACE TO YOUR FAMILIES!" Trump expressed confidence: "I think we're pretty close." He believes that Russia's President Vladimir Putin wants a deal. Zelenskyy agreed that Trump has a "great chance" to end the war but rejected Putin's willingness for a ceasefire.
Zelenskyy said after the meeting: "President Trump is right. It's important to pause now and then talk." He avoided a clear statement on the weapons and emphasized realism regarding a delivery, as the US wants to avoid escalation. The Ukrainian president had previously positioned Putin against the Tomahawks in a phone call with Trump. Trump had promised the delivery days ago but agreed with Putin on a summit in Hungary.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz assured support on X: "President Zelenskyy has the full support of Germany and European friends on the path to peace. Ukraine now needs a peace plan." Ukraine has been defending against the Russian invasion for over three and a half years with Western help.