Zelensky wants plan With Trump to 'stop Putin' before talks with Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the United States on Thursday to develop a joint plan to halt Russian aggression before engaging in peace talks with Moscow.

His call came after U.S. President Donald Trump announced he would begin negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelensky expressed frustration over Trump’s decision to speak to Putin before consulting him. “It’s not very pleasant,” Zelensky said, adding he wants a “plan to stop Putin” before any talks take place.

The Ukrainian leader is set to meet U.S. Vice President JD Vance in Munich on Friday to further discuss Ukraine’s security concerns.

Trump revealed plans to meet with Putin in Saudi Arabia, prompting European leaders to demand a seat at the negotiation table.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz rejected any "dictated peace," while EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the U.S. approach as "appeasement."

"There can be no negotiation about Ukraine without Ukraine," echoed British Defense Minister John Healey. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized Kyiv’s involvement in any settlement discussions.

Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed accusations of betrayal. "There is a recognition that the world is invested in peace," he said, although he signaled U.S. troops would not be deployed as part of any post-war security guarantees.

Trump’s efforts for a quick resolution have sparked concern among Kyiv’s allies, who fear a hasty deal could leave Ukraine vulnerable to further Russian aggression.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov vowed to maintain the country’s resilience, declaring, "We’re strong, we’re capable, we will deliver."

China, a Russian ally, welcomed Trump’s outreach to Putin, stating it was "happy" to see increased communication between the two nations. However, NATO allies remain firm that any resolution must reflect Ukraine’s goals and sovereignty.