Trump Hints At Ukraine War Endgame As He Meets Macron, Pushes Economic Deal

On the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, President Donald Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron at the White House, expressing optimism that the war is nearing its conclusion. However, Macron cautioned that any potential resolution should not equate to Ukraine’s surrender.

The discussions occurred against a backdrop of uncertainty in transatlantic relations. Trump’s foreign policy approach has sidelined European leadership, as he focuses on swiftly ending the conflict. While Macron and Trump appeared amicable during their meeting, tensions flared at the United Nations, where the U.S. and its European allies clashed over resolutions explicitly labeling Russia as the aggressor.

Trump Pushes for European Peacekeepers and Economic Agreement

Trump suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin would accept European peacekeepers in Ukraine. “Yeah, he will accept it,” Trump told reporters. “I have asked him that question. Look, if we do this deal, he’s not looking for more war.” He also stated that the conflict could end within weeks and hinted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy might soon visit the U.S. to finalize a deal granting America access to Ukraine’s critical minerals, essential for aerospace, medical, and technology industries.

The mineral deal is positioned as a way to offset the $180 billion the U.S. has provided Ukraine since the war began. Much of this aid has gone toward replenishing older American weapons supplied to Kyiv. “It looks like we’re getting very close,” Trump said, suggesting Zelenskyy might visit Washington soon to sign the agreement.

Security Assurances for Ukraine?

While Ukraine seeks long-term security guarantees as part of any settlement, Trump remained vague on whether the U.S. would provide such assurances. “Europe is going to make sure nothing happens,” he stated. A French official later revealed that Trump did not oppose U.S. security commitments but that details were still being negotiated.

At a joint press conference, Macron underscored Europe’s responsibility to bolster its defense while warning against capitulating to Russia. “This peace must not mean a surrender of Ukraine,” he said. “It must not mean a ceasefire without guarantees. This peace must allow for Ukrainian sovereignty.”

Despite having severed direct communication with Putin early in the war, Macron acknowledged that the current context could allow for renewed diplomacy. “Now, there is a big chance because there is a new U.S. administration,” he said. “So there is good reason for President Trump to reengage with President Putin.”

Tensions at the U.N. and European Concerns

While Trump and Macron held discussions, their countries remained at odds at the U.N. The U.S. abstained from voting on its own resolution after European nations, led by France, successfully amended it to explicitly name Russia as the aggressor.

Macron, ahead of his meeting with Trump, emphasized that standing firm against Putin was in the mutual interest of Europe and the U.S. “How can you then be credible in the face of China if you’re weak in the face of Putin?” he argued.

Meanwhile, Trump floated the idea of reintegrating Russia into the G7, despite its expulsion following the 2014 annexation of Crimea. “I really believe he [Putin] wants to make a deal,” Trump said. “I may be wrong, but I believe he wants to make a deal.”