President Donald Trump took center stage during a brief media session in New York City on Tuesday before his individual meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the United Nations General Assembly. Trump expressed his desire for the completion of the controversial White House ballroom before his upcoming meeting with China’s President. Known for a somewhat mixed relationship over the last 19 months, both leaders voiced a joint intent to seek resolution to the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, ideally before the onset of winter.
The briefing took a broader turn as Trump answered questions beyond the scope of Ukraine, touching on his forthcoming interaction with Xi and the ballroom’s completion ahead of the scheduled visit.
“He likes China, I like the U.S., that’s the way it is. But it’s a big deal tomorrow night, everybody wants to be there,” Trump said. “I wish we had the ballroom. If we had the ballroom, we could accommodate 2,000 people.”
Trump Touts Good Relationship with Zelensky
As they prepared for their private dialogue, Trump praised his relationship with Zelensky, highlighting their collaborative efforts towards identifying solutions to the Russian conflict.
“The relationship is very strong,” Trump emphasized, while Zelensky conveyed gratitude for Trump’s enduring support, credited alongside Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for advancements in negotiations.
Zelensky voiced optimism regarding a potential resolution before winter, with Trump noting Russian President Vladimir Putin’s involvement.
“I think something is going to happen,” Trump stated.
During the brief media interaction, Zelensky remained relatively silent, with Trump suggesting more could have been shared following their discussion.
Past tensions surfaced during Zelensky’s previous White House visit, leading Vice President JD Vance to emphasize gratitude towards Trump for his commitment to resolving the war. Zelensky’s attire choices were scrutinized, as he had largely avoided formal suits since the escalation of the conflict.
Impact of Russia-Ukraine War on Europe, Diesel Concerns
Trump addressed European anxieties regarding potential Russia-UK confrontations, asserting, “I think it will be OK,” while advising caution in approaches. He further engaged with discussions on a diesel export ban following Eastern European strike-driven costs and Iranian conflict impacts, emphasizing careful management to prevent broader disruptions.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated ongoing evaluations of the proposal.
White House Ballroom: Latest Developments
Progress continues on the White House ballroom’s construction, greenlit by the Supreme Court despite legal hurdles. Trump reported the project as financially efficient and ahead of timelines, maintaining consistent statements despite contrary cost reports.
Slated to replace the demolished East Wing, decimated in October 2025, Trump champions the ballroom’s necessity for hosting state events, previously reliant on temporary lawn constructions.
Critics challenge the administration’s expedited approval processes and swift East Wing demolition, indicative of potential scrutiny avoidance.
Upcoming Interaction with Xi
Trump will welcome Xi in Washington, D.C., later in the week to bolster bilateral relations amid trade tensions. Xi’s anticipated Thursday arrival marks a decade-long hiatus from White House visits, with the state dinner set for the East Room rather than the awaited ballroom.
An assistant, Martyn, collaborated on the story’s production. For further inquiries, contact Newsweek editors: Jason Lemon and Gray R. Thomas.
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