As the Iran situation continues to unfold, President Donald Trump is already shifting focus towards resolving another conflict. During the Group of Seven summit in France, Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The meeting was described by Trump as “very good,” expressing his intent to concentrate efforts on Russia’s war now that a framework deal with Tehran has been signed.
Trump remarked that Iran would soon be “in the rearview mirror,” despite the ongoing uncertainties surrounding the deal’s framework and viability. His comments to reporters emphasized his willingness to do “whatever I can” on Ukraine, urging Russia to negotiate a deal and indicating plans for another meeting with Zelenskyy later the same day.
“Now that this is finished, we’re going to be focusing on that,”
he stated during discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron. This shift brought relief to European leaders who had been advocating for continued attention on the conflict, which has persisted for more than four years.
The conflict in Ukraine has seen Ukrainian forces launch drones and missiles deeper into Russian territory, shifting the narrative. Moscow, meanwhile, has promised “systematic” attacks on Kyiv, demonstrated by Monday’s deadly strikes setting fire to a historic monastery. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted a shared sentiment among G7 leaders that Ukraine was regaining initiative.
European leaders hope pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin will increase both domestically and from Washington, even as there is little sign of a breakthrough on the battlefield or in negotiations. Nonetheless, Trump conveyed optimism. He cited “good conversations” with both Putin and Zelenskyy before the summit, expressing hope for action.
During his campaign, Trump had promised to resolve the conflict within 24 hours; however, no direct meeting with Zelenskyy was scheduled at the summit. Macron reinforced the need to keep the U.S. president engaged, asking Zelenskyy about a potential bilateral meeting during discussions prior to talks.
While they eventually met with other leaders, Zelenskyy wrote on X that attention was on bolstering Ukraine’s air defense and advancing diplomacy to end Russia’s aggression. Photos later circulated showing Zelenskyy meeting with Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasizing the importance of coordinated positions.
Trump’s previous diplomatic efforts faltered as he pressured Ukraine about territorial concessions while siding with Moscow’s demands. After meeting with Zelenskyy, his tone shifted towards encouraging Russia to make a deal, acknowledging the substantial loss of life on both sides.
European leaders previously excluded from negotiations last year now demand inclusion, a move Zelenskyy insists upon despite Russia’s opposition. Tensions between the U.S. and European allies complicate matters further.
Zelenskyy had offered talks with Putin at the summit or even in the U.S., but his provocations were dismissed by the Kremlin. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated there were no official invitations or communication channels open, yet mentioned potential visits from American negotiators, although dates remain undecided as the U.S. focuses on its deal with Iran.
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