Benjamin Netanyahu and Volodymyr Zelenskyy are scheduled to arrive in Washington for the funeral of former Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who died on 11 July. Both leaders plan to use the occasion to meet with President Trump during a period of significant uncertainty regarding U.S. policy toward conflicts involving their nations.
Nethertz’s visit comes as relations with Trump have become strained since their last meeting in February, when the two coordinated on military strikes against Iran that began on 28 February. Trump has publicly criticized Netanyahu, calling him “crazy” and stating: “Without me, there would be no Israel.” The relationship has been further complicated by shifting U.S. approaches to Iran policy. Last month, the administration signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at establishing a 60-day ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and initiating nuclear negotiations. However, Trump later publicly rejected the agreement, and the U.S. conducted 13 consecutive nights of strikes on Iranian targets. According to reports, Pentagon concerns about depleted missile stocks and assessments from Admiral Brad Cooper have contributed to a recent pause in operations. Additionally, Netanyahu is said to be concerned about a recently announced civil nuclear program agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia.
Zelenskyy’s attendance reflects what observers characterize as a notable shift in the Trump administration’s posture toward Ukraine. Recent developments, including a cordial meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy at this month’s NATO summit in Ankara, suggest warmer relations compared to previous confrontations. A meeting between Zelenskyy and social media influencer Laura Loomer last week, during which she publicly reconsidered her prior support for Russia, has been interpreted as signaling changing attitudes in Washington toward the Ukraine conflict. Zelenskyy recently announced that Ukrainian intelligence would share information with the U.S. regarding Russian support for Iran and Russian surveillance activities near American military facilities in the Gulf region.
Graham, known as a strong supporter of Israel and critic of Iran, had visited Kyiv the day before his death and was advancing legislation to increase sanctions on Russia.
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