Zelenskyy to discuss renewed US mediation with Trump at NATO summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sees a "real possibility" of ending the war with Russia, highlighting the crucial role of U.S. determination in any mediation effort. Zelenskyy plans to discuss a potential renewed U.S. mediation attempt with President Donald Trump during the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara. Following a "very good" phone call with Trump, Zelenskyy conveyed the current battlefield situation, refuting Russian claims that the strategic city of Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine had fallen. Both Ukraine and its European allies believe the situation on the front lines and Ukraine's long-range strikes against Russian military targets have improved significantly, positioning Kyiv to negotiate from a position of strength. U.S.-led negotiations have been stalled since before the U.S. conflict with Iran in late February, as neither side appeared genuinely committed to a ceasefire and peace agreement. Zelenskyy, however, expressed optimism via social media, stating, "And the determination of the United States is decisive." He and Trump agreed to continue these discussions at the NATO summit. Meanwhile, Trump also spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who reportedly reiterated Russia's intent to take all of the Donbas region. Putin had previously claimed Russian forces had captured 133 Ukrainian settlements in 2026. The U.S. Institute for the Study of War (ISW) characterized these claims as "enormously exaggerated," noting that evidence only supports the capture or infiltration of 64 settlements and approximately 621.7 square kilometers by Russian forces since the start of 2026. ISW data indicates Russian advances in June were limited to 20 settlements and about 30.42 square kilometers, contradicting Putin's assertions.

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There is a real possibility of ending the war. And the determination of the United States is decisive.