President Trump met with European leaders on Monday to discuss the war in Ukraine, alongside Volodymyr Zelensky, amid a push from the White House for an end to the conflict. The leaders included German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
Trump introduced each leader with colorful descriptions, such as “great political leader,” “my friend,” and “an inspiration.” He praised Macron, who he called for Russia and Ukraine to agree to a 30-day ceasefire or face potential sanctions. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was described by Trump as a great leader and an inspiration, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz was described as a strong person and highly respected in Germany.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb appeared confused about where Stubb was at the table during the meeting, but he was praised for his work and support for Ukraine. Stubb and Trump played golf together in March, and Trump seemed to be growing “impatient” with Putin, who rejected a U.S. ceasefire proposal and added various conditions to a more limited deal.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was also mentioned by Trump, who noted a recent trade deal with her. Trump added that she might be more powerful than all the other leaders at the table, but she said she was joining the meeting “at the request of President Zelenskyy.”
