Ukraine’s sovereignty could be at a critical crossroads as President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares to meet Donald Trump in Washington.
The meeting follows a high-profile summit in Alaska between Trump and Vladimir Putin, which critics warn may have left Zelensky in an incredibly tight spot.
Sources suggest the Ukrainian leader could be pressured to make significant territorial concessions in the east, even as he seeks continued Western support for the rest of his country.
Alaska Summit Sparks Global Concern
Friday’s Alaska summit reportedly paved the way for discussions in which Ukraine might be asked to cede large portions of the Donbas region, despite Kyiv currently controlling parts of it.
In exchange, Zelensky would receive “Nato-style” protection for what remains of his territory.
The scenario has raised alarms that the Ukrainian president could face a “take it or leave it” situation, with little room to negotiate.
Zelensky Stands Firm but Open to Dialogue
According to diplomatic insiders, Zelensky has indicated he will not surrender Donetsk, the flashpoint of conflict since 2014, though he remains “open to discussing the issue of territory.”
The stakes could not be higher, as he travels to the White House where Trump may push for immediate concessions, even as Putin waits to advance his own agenda.
European Leaders Step Up
In response to concerns, Boris Johnson urged Sir Keir Starmer to coordinate international efforts to support Ukraine.
A “coalition of the willing” call with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is planned to discuss the potential role of European peacekeepers in post-conflict Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Trump has reportedly told Zelensky and EU leaders that any deal would require dropping demands for a ceasefire, effectively allowing Russian attacks to continue until negotiations conclude.
Divided Reactions Across the West
The summit drew sharply contrasting reactions. Former British Defence Minister Tobias Ellwood warned that Zelensky could be walking into a trap, facing immense pressure from both Trump and Putin.
He described it as a “classic gangster deal” where Zelensky must either surrender territory or risk being blamed for obstructing peace.
Boris Johnson called the summit “vomit-inducing,” painting a vivid picture of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians watching global leaders treat Putin as a respected figure while their country remains under attack.
Yet Johnson also acknowledged the necessity of dialogue, emphasizing that the hope of peace depends on European engagement.
Responses from Ukraine and Political Figures
The proposed deal was met with dismay in Ukraine.
Professor Volodymyr Dubovyk described the Alaska summit as “a nothing-burger with a sour aftertaste,” highlighting the disconnect between the pageantry of diplomacy and the harsh reality on the ground.
In contrast, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage praised Trump’s attempt to broker peace, while former Tory defence secretary Ben Wallace criticized the summit as a “pantomime,” suggesting Putin emerged unscathed and Trump gained only a political spectacle.
The Danger of Appeasement
Ellwood and other commentators warned that any deal granting Russia further gains could embolden Putin and allow him to regroup and rearm.
They stressed that the broader Russian threat, increasingly supported by China, extends far beyond Ukraine, and that appeasement could lead to wider conflict.
The former Defence Minister concluded that standing by Zelensky is crucial, asserting that failing to do so could have global security repercussions far beyond Europe.
A Critical Moment for Global Security
As Zelensky heads to Washington, the eyes of the world remain on Ukraine.
The meeting could determine the country’s immediate future and test the resolve of Western powers.
Analysts warn that with Trump’s approach and Putin’s ambitions, the Ukrainian president faces a moment of unparalleled pressure, with the outcome potentially shaping the balance of power in Europe for years to come.