NextFin news, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced on Saturday, September 20, 2025, that he will hold a bilateral meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York next week. The primary agenda of the meeting will focus on securing firm U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia, as well as discussing further sanctions against Moscow.
Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of U.S. involvement in the security guarantees framework, stating that Ukraine has prepared a proposal that Europe is ready to accept, contingent on American participation. He highlighted ongoing dialogues at various levels, including military leadership between Ukraine, European countries, and the United States, aimed at deterring future Russian aggression.
In addition to the meeting with Trump, Zelenskiy indicated that several other bilateral talks are planned during the UNGA session. There may also be a separate meeting involving the first ladies of Ukraine and the United States to address humanitarian issues, including the welfare of children affected by the conflict.
Regarding the broader conflict, Zelenskiy reiterated Ukraine's readiness to engage in direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, both bilaterally and trilaterally, although he noted that Putin has so far been unwilling to meet. Zelenskiy also called for joint international cooperation on countering drone attacks over Ukraine.
The push for security guarantees comes as Ukraine seeks assurances to prevent further Russian incursions following years of war that began with Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. NATO and European partners have been discussing a package of security guarantees that may include military support and commitments from coalition countries, but the specifics remain under negotiation.
Trump has previously indicated willingness to support Ukraine with air support but ruled out deploying U.S. ground troops. European leaders have expressed cautious support for security guarantees that do not involve NATO membership for Ukraine but focus on strengthening Ukraine's military and deterrence capabilities.
The meeting at the UNGA represents a critical diplomatic effort by Zelenskiy to solidify international backing, particularly from the United States, as Ukraine continues to face intense military pressure and seeks a sustainable path to peace and security.
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