• President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting at the White House on Tuesday, a White House source confirmed, with talks beginning at 9:47 a.m. ET.
  • The discussions are expected to focus on diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, though no official statement has been released yet.
  • The meeting comes amid shifting U.S. policy signals under the Trump administration regarding military aid and security guarantees for Ukraine.

A High-Stakes Encounter

President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met at the White House on Tuesday for talks that a source familiar with the matter said began at 9:47 a.m. ET. The meeting, which was not officially confirmed ahead of time, underscores the delicate state of U.S.-Ukraine relations as the war with Russia grinds on.

The White House did not immediately release an agenda, but according to people familiar with the planning, the leaders are expected to discuss diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. The meeting also comes as Trump has signaled a potential shift in the U.S. approach to the war, including a possible reduction in military aid and a push for a negotiated settlement.

Diplomatic Maneuvering

Zelensky has been pressing for continued U.S. support, including security guarantees and advanced weaponry, while Trump has emphasized a desire to bring the war to a close. The two leaders have had a complicated relationship, with Trump facing impeachment in 2019 over a phone call in which he pressed Zelensky to investigate Joe Biden.

A senior Ukrainian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Kyiv is hoping for a clear signal of continued American support. "Without a deal, Ukraine would be forced into a difficult position," the official said. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The meeting takes place as European allies watch closely, with some expressing concern over Trump's willingness to maintain the transatlantic alliance. The outcome could have significant implications for NATO unity and the broader Western response to Russian aggression.

Market and Global Implications

While the meeting is primarily diplomatic, its outcome could ripple through global markets. A potential breakthrough in peace talks might lower energy prices, while a breakdown could lead to renewed volatility. Defense stocks, which have rallied on the back of the war, could see swings depending on the tone of the discussions.

Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated the meeting was on Wednesday. It was on Tuesday.