Trump promises a "very big" deal with Russia that could reach beyond Ukraine to all of Europe

US President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House in Washington that he had an unplanned meeting with Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump claimed a "very big" deal with Russia would be reached and could affect not only Ukraine but potentially all of Europe. His words may shape the diplomatic course on Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

What Trump said

Dmitriev had come to the White House for talks hosted by First Lady Melania Trump, which also involved Ukrainian officials. According to the president, the encounter with the envoy was not scheduled.

Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump declined to reveal what exactly was discussed. He stressed, however, that there would be an agreement and that it would be a large one. In his words, it would include more than just Ukraine, and he even said it might include all of Europe. He described it as a big, beautiful deal that would leave everyone thrilled.

At the same time, the president said he himself had not met the Ukrainian officials who were also at the White House on Thursday.

European concerns

Trump's remarks are likely to deepen existing worries in Europe. These concern the possibility that the US president is reorienting toward Russia and may press Ukraine into an unfavorable agreement to end Russia's invasion. Trump did not say what the terms of the deal would be or which countries would take part in it.