President Donald Trump kicked off the week with meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders at the White House, just days after meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. These meetings marked the beginning of a crucial two-week period for the U.S. to determine its role in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia negotiations. A primary focus of the discussions was the potential for enhanced security measures for Ukraine to prevent Russian aggression, with the Trump administration reporting that Putin was receptive to allowing NATO-style protections for Ukraine.
Despite the focus on security, Trump reiterated his stance against sending U.S. troops to Ukraine, signaling a preference for alternative strategies to counter Russian aggression. During these meetings, Trump emphasized the importance of assessing the feasibility of a peace deal and the potential actions the U.S. should take in the coming weeks, including the possibility of imposing significant sanctions or tariffs.
Meanwhile, Trump’s administration has intensified its efforts to address crime in Washington, D.C., by deploying National Guard troops and working closely with law enforcement agencies. This initiative includes the mobilization of troops from multiple states to support the administration’s crackdown on crime, with Trump himself joining these forces to highlight the administration’s commitment to public safety. Additionally, the Trump administration has announced plans to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center, a move that underscores his ongoing focus on international events and his desire to showcase Washington, D.C., as a global hub.