Trump hosts Zelenskyy and European leaders at White House in push for Russia-Ukraine peace deal

President Trump is hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House today.

(NBC)- President Trump is hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House today, joined by several European leaders in a high-profile push for peace with Russia.

Trump posted overnight, “Never had so many European Leaders at one time. My great honor to host them!!!” The gathering signals strong European backing for Ukraine’s security and interests in any future peace deal.

Zelenskyy warned against concessions that would cede Ukrainian territory, recalling past deals that he said only emboldened Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin, fresh off his Friday summit in Alaska with Trump, is demanding to keep the roughly 20 percent of Ukraine currently under Russian occupation.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed that demand, saying, “If there’s going to be a peace deal, it’s not going to look like that.” He defended the administration’s push for a broader agreement rather than the immediate ceasefire sought by Ukraine and Europe, but warned that additional sanctions could derail talks. “The minute he takes those steps, all talks stop,” Rubio said.

Democrats have sharply criticized the administration’s approach and Putin’s warm reception in Alaska. Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut argued, “Putin walks away with his photo op with zero commitments made and zero consequences. What a great day for Russia.”

Special Envoy Steve Witkoff countered that Russia has already agreed to enhanced security guarantees for Ukraine, with details expected to be hashed out when Ukraine takes part in negotiations today.