European Union leaders have expressed support for US President Donald Trump’s efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine but stressed that any peace deal must uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In a joint statement, the EU said peace must be “just and lasting,” in line with international law, and cannot involve changing borders by force.
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“The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future. The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine,” the statement read, adding that negotiations can only be meaningful amid a ceasefire or reduced hostilities.
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to providing political, economic, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic aid to Kyiv, as well as maintaining sanctions on Russia.
Leaders also said a Ukraine capable of defending itself is key to any future security guarantees and pledged readiness to contribute to such arrangements.
The statement affirmed: “The European Union underlines the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny and will continue supporting Ukraine on its path towards EU membership,” noting that Hungary did not sign on.
President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to the EU leaders’ statement on Telegram, expressing gratitude for their clear support of Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity, and for their active diplomatic efforts to achieve a dignified peace.
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“Indeed, we all support President Trump’s determination and must together form positions that prevent Russia from deceiving the world again,” he wrote.
Zelensky added that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war; rather, its recent actions suggest preparations for new offensive operations.
“Issues related to the security of Ukraine and Europe are being discussed collectively. Any decision must strengthen our shared security capabilities. Russia must be held accountable for its refusal to stop the killings,” the president said.
He called on partners to maintain “the pressure of force, the pressure of sanctions, the pressure of diplomacy,” concluding with: “Thank you to everyone who is helping! Peace through strength.”
Trump on Monday called his upcoming summit with Vladimir Putin a “feel-out meeting” to gauge ideas for ending the war in Ukraine, while European leaders scrambled to ensure Kyiv’s interests are protected.
Trump has invited Putin to Alaska on Friday — the first face-to-face between the two since Russia’s 2022 invasion — as he criticizes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for rejecting territorial concessions.
“There’ll be some swapping, there’ll be some changes in land,” Trump insisted, saying he was “a little bothered” by Zelensky’s stance. But he added he would also tell Putin, “you’ve got to end this war.”
Fearing a deal that could pressure Ukraine into “unacceptable compromises,” European leaders will speak separately Wednesday with both Trump and Zelensky.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will host virtual talks with EU and NATO chiefs to discuss sanctions and “possible peace negotiations.”
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned: “Until Russia agrees to a full and unconditional ceasefire, we should not even discuss any concessions… It has never worked in the past with Russia, and will not work with Putin today.”
Zelensky echoed that message: “Russia refuses to stop the killings, and therefore must not receive any rewards… Concessions do not persuade a killer.”
Asked whether Zelensky might join the Alaska talks, US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said it was “possible.”
Trump suggested the Ukrainian leader could be involved “at a future date,” but stressed his priority was “a meeting set up between the two leaders.”
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