WORLD NEWS FOR MONTENEGRO DIASPORA
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Washington, D.C. — October 17, 2025
U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met today at the White House in a pivotal and closely watched meeting focused on Ukraine’s request for advanced U.S. weaponry and the future of American involvement in the war against Russia.
The two leaders discussed the possible transfer of Tomahawk cruise missiles, which Kyiv says are essential for defending against intensified Russian attacks and striking key military targets deep inside occupied territories.
Trump, however, struck a cautious tone. While reaffirming support for Ukraine, he raised concerns about escalation and the need to preserve U.S. weapons reserves.
“We’re going to help Ukraine, but we have to be smart,” Trump told reporters after the meeting. “Our priority is peace — not endless war. We’re looking at every option very carefully.”
Zelensky, appearing alongside Trump in the White House Rose Garden, made a direct plea for continued U.S. backing. He argued that Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression is a fight for international stability and democratic values.
“Every missile, every defense system means lives saved,” Zelensky said. “Ukraine does not seek war, but we must be able to protect our people and our land. We count on our friends in America to stand with us.”
Tension Over Military Aid
Ukraine’s request for Tomahawk missiles has sparked debate in Washington. Some U.S. lawmakers and military analysts warn that supplying long-range systems could risk further escalation with Moscow, while others say holding back would weaken Ukraine’s position on the battlefield.
The Tomahawk, with a range of over 1,000 miles, would mark one of the most powerful U.S. weapons ever considered for transfer to Kyiv. Critics within Trump’s circle argue that providing such technology could stretch U.S. defense inventories and provoke direct Russian retaliation.
According to officials briefed on the talks, Zelensky also proposed a “drone-for-missiles” cooperation deal — offering to share Ukraine’s expanding drone technology and battlefield intelligence in exchange for missile deliveries.
Budapest Summit With Putin Looms
Today’s meeting comes just days before Trump’s planned summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, where the two leaders are expected to discuss possible ceasefire arrangements and broader security guarantees.
The upcoming summit has raised eyebrows among U.S. allies, who fear Trump’s direct engagement with Putin could undermine Western unity on Ukraine. Hungarian officials confirmed they would allow Putin to enter the country for the talks despite his International Criminal Court arrest warrant.
Trump described the Budapest summit as “a chance to find common ground,” though critics warn it could embolden the Kremlin.
“We’re going to talk,” Trump said. “If we can find a path to end the fighting, we’ll do it — but it has to be fair for everyone.”
Reactions and Next Steps
Reactions to the meeting were divided. Supporters praised Trump for pursuing diplomacy while maintaining pressure on Russia. Opponents accused him of weakening U.S. commitments to allies and failing to act decisively in support of Ukraine.
In Kyiv, officials called the meeting “productive” but emphasized that time is running out as Russian forces continue advancing in eastern regions.
Zelensky is expected to meet with congressional leaders in the coming days to lobby for a bipartisan aid package that includes air defense systems, ammunition, and financial assistance for reconstruction.
Meanwhile, Moscow issued a statement warning that the delivery of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine would be regarded as a “major escalation” and “direct involvement by the United States.”
A Test of U.S. Leadership
The Trump–Zelensky meeting highlights a defining challenge of Trump’s foreign policy — balancing promises of peace with the need to confront Russian aggression. Analysts say the outcome of these talks could shape not only Ukraine’s future but also America’s role as a global powerbroker.
“This is about credibility,” said political analyst Sarah Whitman of the Brookings Institution. “If the U.S. hesitates, it sends a signal not just to Russia, but to every authoritarian regime watching how the West responds.”
For now, both sides describe the talks as “constructive,” but the real test may come in the weeks ahead, as Trump prepares to sit down with Putin in Budapest — a meeting that could redefine the course of the war and global diplomacy.
Author: M.J
