The atmosphere in Washington was taut with expectation as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy returned to the White House for his second meeting of the year with U.S. President Donald Trump. Unlike his February visit—which had spiraled into criticism, mockery, and a painfully awkward press conference—this encounter carried an unmistakable sense of anticipation. The stakes could not have been higher. The war in Ukraine, grinding into its fourth year since Russia’s invasion in 2022, still had no end in sight, and Zelenskyy’s trip came just days after Trump’s controversial meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Diplomats, allies, and critics across the globe were watching, fully aware that whatever played out in Washington could alter the trajectory of the conflict.
The contrast between Zelenskyy’s two visits could not have been more stark. In February, he had arrived in his now-iconic olive military fatigues—a deliberate choice meant to signal solidarity with the soldiers and civilians enduring constant bombardment back home. To many, the outfit represented resilience and defiance. But instead of admiration, it sparked ridicule in the very place where he had hoped to secure deeper support. Trump accused him of…
Continue reading next page…