Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, “bruised but motivated,” wrapped up a whirlwind weekend of diplomacy, facing both sharp criticism and warm welcomes. After a tense meeting at the White House with Donald Trump and JD Vance, Zelensky arrived in the U.K., where he was met with a show of support, including an embrace from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and a meeting with King Charles.
Speaking before his departure at Stansted Airport, Zelensky remained defiant, insisting that Ukraine would not bow to pressure to discuss territorial concessions to Russia. “If we don’t keep our spirits up, we’re letting everyone down,” he said, addressing journalists in Ukrainian to ensure clarity.
Despite mounting calls—including from NATO leadership—to mend ties with Trump, Zelensky refused to apologize for the White House encounter, describing his visit as a mark of respect. He signaled willingness to sign a minerals deal with the U.S. but remained firm on Ukraine’s stance against Russian aggression.
Meanwhile, European leaders, including Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, are pushing for a more unified approach to peace efforts. As rumors surfaced of a proposed one-month truce, Zelensky quipped, “I am aware of everything,” offering a rare moment of levity in an otherwise high-stakes moment.
As the war continues with no clear resolution, Zelensky’s message was clear: “Our freedoms and values are not for sale.”
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