Overview

• Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky engaged in a tense confrontation at the White House, with Trump accusing Zelensky of risking global conflict and showing insufficient gratitude for U.S. aid.
• The fallout has heightened European concerns over a possible U.S. pivot toward Russia, as Trump and Vladimir Putin explore bilateral negotiations excluding Ukraine and Europe.
• European leaders are rallying behind Zelensky, with a crisis summit in London set to discuss increased defense efforts and the potential for a European nuclear deterrent.
• Analyses suggest Europe would need to invest significantly in military capabilities, including deploying 300,000 soldiers, to counter Russia without U.S. support.
• Zelensky remains committed to securing security guarantees and rebuilding relations with the U.S., while also seeking stronger European backing.