Several European leaders have announced their decision to join Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for critical talks with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday, August 18, 2025.
The talks with Trump, which are billed to focus on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, have seen a show of unity from some European leaders who have expressed their intentions to protect Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced her attendance, alongside other key figures, at the request of Zelensky.
Also, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he will be among those present. His office has confirmed that Merz “will discuss the status of the peace efforts in Ukraine with the other attendees, and highlight Germany’s interest in a rapid peace agreement.”
French President Emmanuel Macron is attending, the Elysee Palace confirmed, adding he will “continue the work of coordination between Europeans and the United States to achieve a just and lasting peace that preserves Ukraine’s vital interests and the security of Europe.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will also be travelling to Washington with her European counterparts for the talks, her office said.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has also confirmed the decision to join Zelensky for his talks with Trump, the organization has confirmed.
Finland President Alexander Stubb: Stubb’s office said he will “participate in a meeting on peace in Ukraine.”
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that the upcoming meeting follows a tense history between Zelensky and Trump, notably a February 2025 Oval Office clash that strained U.S.-Ukraine relations.
The meeting also comes after Trump’s recent summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.
