Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump have agreed to meet in New York following a phone conversation to discuss ongoing diplomatic efforts regarding the war in Ukraine.
Key facts
- •President Zelensky and President Trump agreed to meet in New York following a phone call on September 20.
- •Zelensky described the upcoming meeting as one that 'could change a lot' regarding diplomatic momentum.
- •U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner recently visited Kyiv to discuss security and de-escalation.
- •President Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on September 18.
- •The new law imposes duties of up to 500% on certain Russian imports and expands sanctions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump are scheduled to meet in New York this week. Zelensky announced the upcoming meeting on September 20, following a phone call between the two leaders, stating that the discussion could significantly impact diplomatic momentum regarding the war in Ukraine.
Diplomatic Priorities and Recent Engagements
Zelensky stated that peace remains the primary priority, with ongoing discussions focused on de-escalation, energy security, food stability, and the protection of lives. He noted that he is working closely with the American team on these issues. Additionally, Zelensky expressed gratitude for a recent visit to Kyiv by U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. He credited the visit with allowing the officials to observe the situation in Ukraine firsthand and discuss key security concerns.
New Sanctions Legislation
The upcoming meeting follows President Trump’s signing of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on September 18. The legislation expands sanctions against Russia and authorizes new tariffs on nations that purchase Russian energy. The law also mandates duties of up to 500% on specific goods imported from Russia.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by The Hill, Kyiv Independent.
