Zelensky Adopts Strategic Approach to Avoid Previous Trump Meeting Mistakes
The Ukrainian president implemented a new diplomatic strategy with allied support during his recent encounter with Trump.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky significantly changed his approach when meeting Donald Trump, learning from their problematic encounter six months earlier. He dressed more formally and carefully managed his interactions, showing gratitude and deflecting difficult questions by praising Trump's leadership. European leaders accompanied Zelensky to demonstrate solidarity and help manage Trump's unpredictable stance on Ukraine.
Trump expressed interest in mediating peace talks, proposing meetings between Zelensky and Putin followed by trilateral discussions. The potential peace framework involves Ukraine possibly surrendering territory in exchange for ending hostilities and receiving security guarantees.
However, this approach remains controversial among Ukrainian and European diplomats who prefer complete Russian withdrawal. Despite diplomatic efforts, Russia continues military operations, recently killing at least 10 people in Ukrainian cities.
European leaders carefully balanced praising Trump while advancing their own agenda, recognizing the importance of maintaining U.S. support despite uncertainties about Trump's commitment.
Original Article
theatlantic.comhttps://www.theatlantic.com/national-security/archive/2025/08/zelensky-trump-oval-office-europeans/683918/