Washington, July 29: U.S. President Donald Trump held separate meetings on Tuesday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. These discussions occurred during a critical time when the U.S. is facing two wars and the accompanying diplomatic challenges.
Both meetings took place behind closed doors in the Oval Office, with no media presence allowed. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt shared on X, “President Trump has completed his meetings with President Zelensky and Prime Minister Netanyahu. Both discussions were positive and productive.”
Zelensky arrived at the White House around 9:40 AM, entering through a side entrance of the West Wing. Reports indicate that Netanyahu departed around 12:25 PM. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office later released joint photos of Trump and Netanyahu, with an Israeli official describing the meeting as “very positive.”
According to a White House official, the discussions were expected to cover topics such as the potential for war with Iran, talks related to Lebanon, and efforts to advance the Abraham Accords. Netanyahu was anticipated to provide Trump with intelligence regarding Iran’s alleged activities, including information about a site known as Pixax Mountain, believed to be linked to Tehran’s nuclear program.
However, Trump expressed frustration that Netanyahu had publicly disclosed his plans beforehand. He remarked to Fox News, “I heard that Netanyahu announced it. I said, ‘Why didn’t you tell me? What was the need to announce it to the whole world?’”
The U.S. President has indicated a willingness to re-engage in negotiations with Iran, while Israel has consistently advocated for maintaining pressure on Tehran. Trump acknowledged on Monday that there are some differences between the two nations. He stated, “We have a slight difference, but we are quite close.”
On Tuesday, Trump warned Iran that if it fails to reach an agreement, the U.S. could target locations such as bridges and power plants.
Zelensky’s meeting primarily focused on U.S. assistance for Ukraine and efforts to resume peace talks with Russia. After the meeting, Zelensky noted that he discussed air defense systems and new diplomatic initiatives with Trump.
Zelensky arrived in Washington hopeful for progress on sanctions against Russia, a drone agreement, Patriot air defense systems, and advancements in peace negotiations. He was also expected to meet with U.S. lawmakers and address a full Senate session.
The White House emphasized that Trump remains committed to ending the Russia-Ukraine war. They stated, “The President and his team are dedicated to playing a constructive role in ending the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. They still hope that a peace agreement will eventually be reached.”
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