Zelensky rallies EU support as Trump says Ukraine leader 'more difficult to deal with than Putin'

Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Brussels for a summit with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, placing Ukraine’s leadership at the centre of discussions with senior European officials.

Ukraine’s message in Brussels

Zelensky’s appearance brings him together with the presidents of the European Council and European Commission as he seeks support from the European Union. The available information does not specify the proposals or requests presented at the summit, nor does it detail any decisions reached by the participants.

Trump sharpens political backdrop

The Brussels meeting comes as Donald Trump described Zelensky as “more difficult to deal with than Putin.” The remark adds a critical tone to the wider political backdrop surrounding Ukraine’s engagement with international leaders.

For European officials, Zelensky’s presence provides a direct setting for discussions with Ukraine’s president. However, the source does not provide details on the scope of European backing, the issues raised during the summit or any immediate outcome.

What remains unknown

No further information was provided on the summit’s agenda, follow-up measures or how the exchanges involving Zelensky, Costa and von der Leyen may affect future negotiations. The central developments are Zelensky’s arrival in Brussels and the contrasting public assessment from Trump.