Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet with President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday, amid ongoing tensions with Russia. Zelensky stated that Russia's refusal to agree to a ceasefire is complicating efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

European and NATO leaders will accompany Zelensky during this crucial meeting. The coalition includes prominent figures such as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Their participation is seen as a strategic move to show solidarity with Ukraine and to ensure a more constructive dialogue than Zelensky's previous meeting with Trump in February, which was marked by tension.

Retired French General Dominique Trinquand commented on the situation, saying, "The Europeans are very afraid of the Oval Office scene being repeated and so they want to support Mr. Zelenskyy to the hilt. It’s a power struggle and a position of strength that might work with Trump."

The involvement of European leaders aims to prevent Ukraine from being pressured into a peace deal that disproportionately favors Russia. Following a recent summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, where they discussed pathways to peace in Ukraine, concerns have risen in Kyiv and other European capitals about the potential outcomes of the negotiations.

Trump mentioned that many points were agreed upon during his meeting with Putin, but he emphasized, "There’s no deal until there’s a deal." The presence of multiple international leaders at Zelensky's side is intended to reinforce Ukraine's position in the ongoing discussions.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte will also be part of the talks, further demonstrating the alliance's commitment to supporting Ukraine. It remains uncertain whether all leaders will be present in the room during the meeting with Trump.