President Trump engaged with European leaders on Monday regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, accompanied by the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, as he urged an end to the war from the White House.
The conference included notable figures such as German Prime Minister Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, European Commission Chair Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Latte.
At the meeting’s outset, Trump offered vibrant introductions for his fellow leaders, using phrases like “great political leader,” “my friend,” and “inspiration.”
NATO Secretary General Mark Latte
Trump referred to Latte as “a great gentleman, a great political leader in Europe,” adding that he was doing an excellent job as NATO’s executive director. Following Trump’s previous meeting with Putin, Latte emphasized the alliance’s goal was to ensure Ukraine had the necessary support to continue its efforts.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer
Trump labeled Starmer a “British star,” describing him as a friend who was performing well and was well-liked. He noted the warm embrace during a previous meeting with Zelensky, which contrasted with their earlier, more strained interactions. Starmer pledged that the UK would support Ukraine as long as needed during a press conference with Zelensky in March.
French President Emmanuel Macron
Trump expressed admiration for Macron, saying, “I’ve loved him from day one,” recalling that Macron was one of the first high-ranking foreign officials he met. He mentioned that he appreciates Macron even more now, despite how unusual that might be. Earlier this year, Macron supported Trump’s proposal for a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
Trump referred to Meloni as “a truly great leader and inspiration,” acknowledging her long tenure compared to others in similar roles, despite her youth. While she aligns with Trump ideologically on many issues, her strong support for Ukraine after the Russian invasion in February 2022 sets her apart.
German Prime Minister Friedrich Merz
Trump described Merz as “a very strong person, a very strong leader” with significant respect in Germany, expressing honor in their friendship. He also complimented Merz’s appearance. Since his election, Merz has become a prominent supporter of Ukraine and is advocating for a ceasefire agreement with Russia while ensuring Germany can independently support Ukraine.
President of Finland Alexander Stubb
Initially, Trump seemed unsure of Stubb’s position at the table. He remarked, “You look better than I saw you,” praising Stubb for his contributions, although his thoughts meandered a bit. Stubb and Trump had played golf together in March, and Stubb noted Trump appeared to be growing impatient with Putin over rejected ceasefire proposals.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen
Trump mentioned von der Leyen in connection with a recent trade agreement and suggested she might hold more strength than other leaders at the table. Von der Leyen had previously posted online that she attended the meeting “at the request of President Zelensky.”
