Market Jitters Amid Global Tensions and Fed Watch

Wall Street stocks faced a sharp downturn as global markets responded to White House discussions on the war in Ukraine and future central bank moves. Meanwhile, European equities saw a rise, with traders eagerly anticipating key insights from the upcoming central bankers' meeting.

U.S. President Donald Trump's discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy hinted at security guarantees, although details remain vague. Despite these developments, leading AI stocks like Nvidia dragged down the S&P 500 and Nasdaq. In contrast, European indexes experienced gains, although defense stocks dipped as investors capitalized on recent sector strength.

In energy markets, oil prices fell in response to speculation about potential progress in Ukraine-related talks potentially easing Russian sanctions. Expectations around the Federal Reserve's symposium are high as the Fed faces pressure to address inflation and slow growth, with President Trump urging for dramatic rate cuts.

(With inputs from agencies.)