White House blowup threatens Europe's relevance on Ukraine issue

A tense meeting at the White House between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has escalated concerns over Ukraine’s security and US support. Zelenskyy’s demand for security guarantees and Trump’s unilateral stance on peace talks with Russia have left European allies scrambling for alternatives.

The White House blowup threatens Europe's relevance on the Ukraine issue.

Heated exchange at the White House

The discussion between Trump, Zelenskyy, and US Vice President JD Vance quickly turned contentious. According to reports, the first 40 minutes of their conversation were stable, with both leaders addressing media questions. However, tensions flared when Zelenskyy demanded security guarantees and accused Russia’s Vladimir Putin of breaking past promises.

Also Read: After US fiasco, Zelenskyy gets a hug from Starmer, advice from NATO chief

This indirect criticism of Trump’s previous administration (2016-2020) did not sit well with the US president.

“You don’t do that when you’re in a sensitive discussion,” said KS Dakshina Murthy, The Federal’s Managing Editor, highlighting Zelenskyy’s lack of political experience.

'Trump treating European allies with complete disdain'

In response to the fallout, Zelenskyy attended a summit in London, where European leaders pledged security agreements to support Ukraine. However, Trump has not consulted European allies regarding a peace deal with Putin.

“Trump is treating his European allies with complete disdain,” noted Dakshina Murthy.

Also Read: White House public spat pushes Ukraine peace further away

Britain has already suggested deploying NATO troops in Ukraine, but such measures require US approval, which remains uncertain.

As Murthy noted, “No security guarantee will work without the US and Putin agreeing to it.”

Can Europe step up if Trump withdraws?

Amid growing uncertainty, European leaders insist that any alternative peace deal must involve the US.

“Both Zelenskyy and European allies cannot move without US backing,” analysts stress.

Trump’s stance suggests that Ukraine and Europe have little leverage in negotiations with Russia.

Also Read: ‘Trump a bully, US siding with Russia:’ Ukrainian media rallies behind Zelensky

If Trump fully withdraws US support, European nations may increase military aid and even station troops in Ukraine. However, without US involvement, experts warn that such efforts may not be sufficient.

“If Trump is hostile to Europe and Zelenskyy, nothing can be done,” Dakshina Murthy explained.

Zelenskyy’s damage control

Following the diplomatic fallout, Zelenskyy released a video expressing gratitude for US support. Many saw this as an attempt at damage control, considering the ongoing negotiations over mineral rights in Ukraine.

“Ukraine is completely dependent on the US,” Murthy remarked.

Also Read: ‘Grateful’ to US, Zelenskyy says in video days after spat with Trump

While Europe explores alternative security guarantees, Trump’s decision remains the key factor in shaping Ukraine’s future. Will European efforts be enough to secure Ukraine, or will Trump’s unilateral approach force a new geopolitical reality?

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