In what many analysts are calling a “decisive moment” for Ukraine’s diplomatic and military future during the 51st. Scheduled for June 15–17 from the world’s most powerful democracies and selected global partners. The planned bilateral between Zelenskyy and Trump, their third face-to-face since Trump’s return to office in January 2025, is being closely watched by international observers.
President Zelenskyy confirmed his attendance, emphasizing the significance of Ukraine’s presence on a stage traditionally reserved for G7 members. Canadian Prime Minister to non-member states, including Ukraine, interdependence in confronting geopolitical and economic crises. The final day of the summit will focus on “A Strong and Sovereign Ukraine” — a session that places Zelenskyy at the center of the agenda.
The meeting with Trump could prove a turning point for Kyiv’s and its plea for consistent Western support. With Trump signaling a shift from previous U.S. policies on Ukraine, Zelenskyy is expected to advocate forcefully for continued military and humanitarian assistance — particularly in light of the U.S. Congress’s growing debate over future aid.
The Zelenskyy-Trump meeting follows their brief encounter at the Vatican in April 2025 during the funeral of Pope Francis. Though short, that interaction set the stage for a more substantial dialogue. According to Sky News, both leaders expressed interest in a follow-up meeting, recognizing the evolving nature of U.S.-Ukraine relations under the new Trump administration.
That meeting gains added importance as Washington reassesses its noted the Trump administration holds “a fundamentally different vision” for the war in Ukraine than its predecessor, President Joe Biden. Some fear this vision could involve scaling back support, placing immense pressure on Zelenskyy to secure reassurances.
Back home, President Zelenskyy remains deeply engaged with Ukraine’s military defense. In a recent national address, he praised and Donetsk regions. He also thanked the 1st and 82nd air assault brigades for their efforts near Pokrovsk, and commended the 3rd assault brigade for their resilience in Kupiansk.
Ukraine’s military also continues to strike deep behind enemy lines. “The Kursk operation is ongoing,” Zelenskyy said, highlighting the bold actions of the 33rd Assault Regiment, the 47th Mechanized Brigade, and the 103rd Territorial Defense Brigade. These moves not only disrupt Russian logistics but serve as proof that Ukraine is not passively defending—it is actively reclaiming territory.
For Zelenskyy, the G7 summit is not just an opportunity—it is a diplomatic minefield. Trump’s recent comments on Truth Social claimed that “Russia and Ukraine are very close to a deal,” sparking concern in Kyiv about potential backchannel negotiations.
Meanwhile, reports from Axios say Trump is using the summit to strengthen ties with other world leaders, including Canada’s Carney and Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, while pushing controversial tariffs and potentially isolationist policies. Carney, for his part, has drawn a clear line: during a tense White House visit in May, he reportedly told Trump that “Canada has no interest in becoming the 51st state.” This exchange, while somewhat tongue-in-cheek, Trump’s global posture — friction that Zelenskyy must navigate carefully.
Despite war at home, Zelenskyy’s influence as a global statesman continues to grow. He has managed to position Ukraine as a moral and strategic fulcrum in an increasingly divided world. His ability to forge international partnerships — shows a leader who understands that Ukraine’s survival is as much about alliances as it is about armaments. But the stakes remain high. With U.S. military aid potentially on the chopping block and European resolve under strain, Zelenskyy’s face-to-face with Trump could determine whether Ukraine enters the second half of 2025 with strengthened backing or growing vulnerability.