Settlement with Russia should be ‘just’: Zelensky at Trump meeting
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President-elect Donald Trump was told by Zelensky that any settlement with Russia must be "just," amid growing concerns in Kiev about the incoming administration.
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French President Emmanuel Macron, center, poses with President-elect Donald Trump, left, and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Elysee Palace, on December 7, 2024, in Paris. (AP)
On Saturday, Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasized during a meeting with US president-elect, Donald Trump, that any settlement with Russia, following its operation in Ukraine, must be "just." This came as concerns in Kiev grow about the stance of the incoming administration.
French President Emmanuel Macron hosted trilateral talks with Zelensky and Trump at the Élysée Palace, where they discussed what Trump had referred to as a "little crazy" world.
Hours after their meeting, President Joe Biden's outgoing administration revealed a new $988 million (£775 million) military aid package for Ukraine. According to a Pentagon statement, the package includes drones, ammunition for precision HIMARS rocket launchers, and equipment and spare parts for artillery systems, tanks, and armored vehicles.
Zelensky’s meeting with Trump, which took place just before the three men traveled to Notre Dame for the reopening ceremony of the Paris cathedral, marked his first in-person encounter with the businessman-turned-politician since Trump’s election victory.
'A just peace and security guarantees'
The meeting was of significant importance to Zelensky, as there were growing concerns in Kiev that Trump, who previously claimed he could end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours, might pressure Ukraine to make concessions to Moscow.
It also provided a rare opportunity for Macron to gain a better understanding of what a second Trump presidency might entail when he assumes office in January.
This trip to Paris marks Trump’s first international visit since his election victory on November 5.
“We all want peace. But it is very important for us … that the peace is just for all of us and that Russia, (Russian President Vladimir) Putin or any other aggressor has no possibility of ever returning,” Zelenskyy said according to the presidential website.
“And this is the most important thing – a just peace and security guarantees, strong security guarantees for Ukraine,” he added.
Trump has dismissed the billions of dollars in US military aid to Ukraine, suggesting he could force a swift settlement to the war. However, Zelensky also expressed gratitude to Trump for his “unwavering resolve,” describing their discussions as "good and productive."
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