Moment Zelensky and Trump shake hands at White House 6 months after bust-up

Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky met at the White House on Monday for high-stakes talks on the war in Ukraine.

Trump greeted Zelensky with a smile and a handshake on the White House steps a sharp contrast to their last encounter in February, which spiraled into a tense shouting match. This time, the mood was noticeably calmer.

Inside, Zelensky thanked Trump for the invitation and for his efforts to “stop the killing.” Reporters noted that the Ukrainian president wore a formal suit for the occasion after being mocked earlier this year for appearing in military-style clothing.

Still, the meeting was not without its edge. Trump told reporters that while he hasn’t ruled out sending American troops if a ceasefire is reached, the U.S. would remain deeply “involved” in Ukraine’s security. Russia’s foreign ministry, anticipating this, had already issued a statement rejecting the idea of NATO troops in Ukraine.

During February’s heated exchange, Trump accused Zelensky of “gambling with World War Three,” while Zelensky warned the U.S. would “feel it in the future” if support wavered. Vice President JD Vance also pressed Zelensky at that time for not showing enough gratitude for American aid. Trump echoed that sentiment again, reminding Zelensky, “You’ve got to be more thankful.”

This week, however, Trump’s tone was more cooperative. He said he plans to speak with Vladimir Putin after meeting with Zelensky and European leaders, even hinting at a possible three-way summit.

“If everything works out today, we’ll have a trilat,” Trump said, referring to potential trilateral talks between himself, Putin, and Zelensky. Zelensky welcomed the idea, calling it “a good signal” and expressing readiness for such discussions.

Whether these talks move closer to ending the war remains to be seen, but both leaders appeared more aligned than they were earlier this year.