Washington: Ahead of the funeral of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, significant diplomatic engagements unfolded at the White House, where US President Donald Trump convened with leaders from Ukraine and Israel. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu each held separate meetings with Trump on Tuesday, with both leaders describing their sessions as "positive" after discussions lasting more than an hour.
According to TRTworld.com, Zelenskyy expressed commendation for a "good meeting" with Trump, highlighting discussions on licenses for producing Patriot air-defense interceptors and strategies to rejuvenate peace talks with Russia. Zelenskyy, after his over hour-long meeting with Trump, extended gratitude on X for efforts towards protecting Ukrainian lives and advancing peace. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt characterized the meeting as "positive and productive," with proceedings commencing at 9:47 am (local time) without media presence.
The atmosphere around the White House was marked by stringent security measures, as only pedestrian access was allowed on the surrounding streets, with barricades, police cars, and dump trucks impeding vehicular traffic. Pro-Palestine protesters voiced opposition to Netanyahu's visit, brandishing banners and chanting slogans, labeling him a "war criminal" and advocating for the "full return of Palestine to Palestinian sovereignty."
Netanyahu's meeting with Trump was his first since the US-Israeli war on Iran commenced on February 28. The discussions, closed to the press, lasted approximately 90 minutes, constituting their eighth meeting since Trump's return to office in early 2025. A senior source from Netanyahu's delegation described the session as "extremely positive," with key discussions focusing on ensuring Iran remains devoid of nuclear capabilities.
The presence of both Netanyahu and Zelenskyy in Washington also coincides with the funeral of Lindsey Graham, a staunch ally and advocate for US support for Israel and Ukraine amid their ongoing conflicts. Graham, known for his interventionist stance, passed away on July 11 due to a heart ailment at 71. Prior to his passing, he had a meeting in Kiev with Zelenskyy, marking his tenth visit since the conflict began in 2022.
Post-funeral, Zelenskyy plans to proceed to the US Capitol for discussions with senators on a bipartisan sanctions package against Russia, a legislative effort championed by Graham in his final days.
Netanyahu, following his conversation with Trump, shared a video on Instagram, praising the meeting as "excellent" and emphasizing mutual support and shared objectives, notably concerning Iran's nuclear ambitions. The meeting included participation from Trump's senior team and Netanyahu's delegation, providing an opportunity for dialogue on security and future coordination for Israel.
Despite recent strains in their relationship, particularly during Pakistan-backed ceasefire talks with Iran, Trump and Netanyahu's meeting reflected a renewal of diplomatic engagement. Prior to their meeting, Trump criticized Netanyahu for publicly addressing Iran's Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility, stressing that the US was well-informed about the site without needing public reminders from the Israeli leader.