Polish President Andrzej Duda held a private discussion with U.S. President Donald Trump during which they addressed several key topics, including the ongoing war in Ukraine.
According to the Polish president’s office, Duda and Trump met on February 22 in Washington to discuss Polish-American relations, security cooperation, and the U.S. military and economic presence in Poland.
Regarding Ukraine, Duda stated that Trump shared his concise plan for resolving the conflict, emphasizing the need for negotiations as the only viable path to ending the war.
"I had a private conversation with President Donald Trump, during which he briefly outlined his plan. He said negotiations are necessary, as that is the only way to end the war," Duda's office reported.
The meeting comes against increasing tension between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who recently exchanged sharp criticism. Trump called Zelenskyy a "dictator" and suggested Ukraine bears responsibility for starting the war with Russia -- remarks that sparked concern in Kyiv, European capitals, and among some high-ranking Republican lawmakers in the United States.
Speaking to journalists, Duda emphasized Trump's interest in strengthening Ukraine, including through economic ties. He noted that the U.S. economic presence in Ukraine could serve as a form of security guarantee, ensuring Ukraine remains stable and protected.
Duda's visit to the United States followed a conversation with Zelenskyy on February 21. The Polish leader described the talk as "frank" and urged Zelenskyy to maintain a calm and constructive approach to relations with Trump amid recent diplomatic tensions.
Zelenskyy previously said Trump had been influenced by Russian disinformation and allowed the United States to help Russia escape years of international isolation by engaging in high-level diplomatic talks in Riyadh on February 18.
As Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russia's military aggression, the diplomatic landscape is becoming increasingly complex. Trump's statements and shifting U.S. policy stances have raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe about the future of Western support for Ukraine.
Meanwhile, efforts by Poland, the United Kingdom, and the EU signal ongoing international backing for Ukraine, even as diplomatic challenges persist.
