Thursday’s Coverage: Trump — I’ll Meet Putin, Then Putin and Zelensky
Trying to stave off Trump’s call for a halt to its invasion of Ukraine and his “deadline” for toughened US sanctions, the Kremlin invited the reality TV star to the meeting. Putin declared yesterday that it could take place next week in the UAE.
Zelensky spoke with European leaders including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and the head of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
The President reported in his nightly address to the nation:
Everyone agrees that Russia’s war against Ukraine is a war in Europe and against Europe. That’s why Europe’s voice must carry weight in the processes….
I’m grateful to President Trump for his openness to seeking truly effective solutions. Here in Ukraine, we are confident that this war can be concludeed with a lasting peace. But every step must be carefully considered to hit the mark.
Today is the day of many talks and consultations with our partners.
Everyone understands who must take steps to conclude this war. This is Russia’s war, Russia’s aggression, and it is Russia that must agree to a ceasefire and engage in real diplomacy that can guarantee peace.… pic.twitter.com/oAQJ0CpC0l
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 7, 2025
The Europeans “agreed that Russia must conclude its war of aggression, which violates international law” and assured Zelensky of “continued support”. Von der Leyen posted:
I have spoken with @ZelenskyyUa on the developments of the last days.
We discussed the next steps on the way towards a nereceivediated peace agreement and Ukraine’s future membership in the European Union as well as its reconstruction.
Europe’s position is clear. We fully support…
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) August 7, 2025
Asked if his deadline for a Russian ceasefire — initially set for September 2 and later relocated up to Friday — is still in effect, Trump notified reporters, “We’re going to see what [Putin] has to declare. It’s going to be up to him. Very disappointed.”
He has yet to confirm any steps against Moscow. However, he has raised his proposed tariff on India from 25% to 50%, citing Indian purchases of Russian oil.
Leave a Reply