While negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine remained unsolved but near, US President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy attempted to exude ease and momentum at Mar-a-Lago using a combination of comedy, gestures, and informal interactions.
In his opening remarks, Trump described the meeting as “terrific,” stating that the two sides had “discussed a lot of things” and that “just about every subject” had been covered. He described recent outreach to European leaders as part of a concerted diplomatic effort and stated that significant progress had been made toward ending the war.
Even while there were still “one or two very thorny issues,” Trump stated, “We’ve done very well,” pointing out that talks had advanced toward a potential compromise.
Trump maintained a casual, conversational tone throughout, frequently pausing to thank advisers, make jokes with reporters, and remark on the situation. He said it was a privilege to hold the negotiations at Mar-a-Lago and complimented the Ukrainian delegation, saying Zelensky’s staff “looks like central casting.”
“Having you over for lunch at Mar-a-Lago was an honor,” Trump remarked. “I hope the food is enjoyable for you.”
Zelensky then made a few brief words in which he thanked Trump and his team, especially Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Steve Witkoff, for what he called “sustained engagement.”
Zelensky’s responses to Trump’s remarks occasionally attracted notice. The Ukrainian president turned to face the US media and shrugged as Trump brought up what he said was a previous White House meeting where Ukraine “wasn’t ready for peace.”
Zelensky also grinned and laughed when Trump stated that Russia wants to assist Ukraine in its reconstruction, which “sounds very strange.” This statement momentarily lifted the mood of the press conference.
Trump admitted that the negotiations were still difficult despite the laid-back moments. When asked about territorial concerns, he responded, “The word agreed is too strong,” adding that negotiations were “getting closer to an agreement” but were still ongoing.
According to Trump, the leaders intended to maintain tight communication, and depending on events, they would speak again as early as the following day. He stated, “We’re in the process.”
Trump had discussed the prospect of traveling to Ukraine, stating that he had “no problem” doing so if it would save lives. “You are welcome,” Zelensky said in a kind reply.
The US president also talked extensively about his recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, characterizing it as substantial and long. He presented the negotiations as a humanitarian endeavor and stated that both parties wanted the war to cease. Trump declared, “I don’t want to see so many people dying.”
Trump’s tone fluctuated between excitement and caution as the questioning went on. If negotiations went well, he suggested a settlement might be reached in a matter of weeks, but he cautioned that failure would result in further conflict. He remarked, “They keep fighting, and they keep dying.” “Not good.”
As the press briefing came to an end, the casual mood resumed. Trump thanked reporters for coming and asked whether they had enjoyed lunch.
Trump made light of Zelensky’s response to the scene as he was leaving. “He entered. Trump remarked, “He said this place is gorgeous.” “I believe he no longer wishes to visit the White House.”
Zelensky instantly responded, grinning, “I’m ready to go to the White House,” which caused the group to erupt in laughter. In response, Trump praised both locations, calling the White House “a very special place” and adding, “And so is this.”
Tension and public skepticism characterized their first meeting in the Oval Office. The conversation on Sunday appeared to be an intentional attempt by both leaders to soften the image while indicating that negotiations have reached a critical stage.
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