Zelensky cannot afford to be humbled into an abject apology. After three years of Russian bombardment, Ukrainians are not in the mood for capitulation. But he would have to find a form of words sufficient to appease Trump. He might also have to accept a ceasefire on Trump's terms, even if he still believes peace is "very, very far away".

President Donald Trump renewed his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday. Trump, in a social media post, pointed to recent comments in which Zelensky said the end of his country’s war with Russia remains far off.

The order will remain in effect until Trump determines that Ukraine has demonstrated a commitment to peace negotiations with Russia, an official said.