NEED TO KNOW
- Trump says the “next step” toward peace is hearing both sides “like a fair referee.”
- Zelensky agrees to meet but only if talks move from Washington to “somewhere less exhausting,” such as Maui.
- European officials fear the summit could turn into “the world’s most awkward group project.”
Trump Wants “Both Sides to Win”
One day after returning from his Alaska meeting with Vladimir Putin, President Trump announced he plans to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington on Monday. Trump described the trip as the “fair and balanced next step” in ending the war. He said after “making great progress” with Putin, he wants Ukraine to have a chance to “state their case” so that “everyone walks away feeling like a winner.”
“I spoke to Zelensky,” Trump told reporters. “I said, ‘Look, I just met with my good pal Vlad. Now it’s your turn. We’re going to do this like adults. No arguing. No whining in front of the cameras.’ He appreciated that.”
Zelenskyy Pushes for Different Venue
According to Ukrainian officials, Zelenskyy did not appreciate it. Their readout of the call featured a different tone. “President Zelenskyy informed Mr. Trump that he will be glad to meet, but only if the meeting takes place somewhere relaxing, preferably Maui,” the statement read. “After several years of war, we would like at least one meeting that includes an ocean breeze and a drink in a coconut.”
One adviser close to Zelenskyy added, “If he got to walk around Alaska with Putin and watch bombers fly over, we get a Hawaiian hotel and maybe a dolphin show.” European diplomats told CNN the demand is “understandable.” One French official noted, “Honestly, we would also prefer Maui.”
Another Summit in the Making?
Trump said he is open to the idea of moving the meeting to “a nice place,” though he suggested Branson, Missouri as a cheaper option. He also floated the idea of a three-way summit with Putin, Zelenskyy and “maybe Elon Musk as moderator.”
“We want peace,” Trump said. “And if peace needs a beach, we can do beach.” Zelenskyy reportedly rolled his eyes when told of the Missouri suggestion and replied, “Not even for a ceasefire.”
Quote of the moment
If he wants a photo op that badly, he can come to Maui and carry my luggage
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine
