“As you celebrate this important day, know that the United States respects your struggle, honors your sacrifices, and believes in your future as an independent nation,” Trump wrote in a congratulatory message for Ukraine’s Independence Day, which Zelensky reposted on X on August 24.
“The United States supports a negotiated peace that delivers lasting, durable stability, ends the bloodshed, and safeguards Ukraine’s sovereignty and dignity,” Trump added. “God bless Ukraine.”
In his post, Zelensky thanked the American president for the encouragement and for the United States “standing with Ukraine.” Earlier in the week, Trump met Zelensky and European leaders at the White House to discuss the trajectory of peace talks. The parties are considering a U.S.-backed form of security guarantees for Ukraine following the meeting, though the shape of such assurances remains unclear. Trump initially said the United States could participate in a European-led peacekeeping force to protect Ukraine, but later stated he would not deploy U.S. troops on the ground.
Even so, the latest White House meeting was viewed as a positive signal, sharply contrasting with the February exchange between Trump and Zelensky that began with Trump’s jab at Zelensky’s attire and ended with the American president asking his counterpart to leave early. This time, Zelensky wore a suit, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance—who at their first meeting had chided the Ukrainian leader for not thanking the United States for aid—remained silent.
The Oval Office conversation came just days after Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. That summit did not produce a cease-fire, but Trump maintained he is pressing for a long-term peace agreement for Ukraine.