Amid escalating tensions, European allies reinforce the necessity of including Ukraine in any peace negotiations with Russia, ahead of a pivotal Trump-Putin summit.
European Allies Demand Inclusion of Ukraine in Peace Talks with Russia
European Allies Demand Inclusion of Ukraine in Peace Talks with Russia
International leaders express urgent need for Kyiv's participation in ongoing negotiations.
European allies have voiced unified support for Ukraine, insisting that any peace discussions involving Russia must encompass Kyiv. A statement released by leaders from the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Finland, and the European Commission emphasized the importance of Ukraine's inclusion, especially as US President Donald Trump prepares for his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.
While the White House has indicated that Trump is open to a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the initial arrangement for the summit remains focused solely on Trump and Putin. Zelensky has made it clear that any agreements made without Ukraine’s involvement will be deemed "dead decisions". The Ukrainian president has stated that the prospect of exchanging territory, a suggestion from Trump, would only empower Russia to continue its aggression.
Reports indicate that the Biden administration is working to persuade European partners to accept terms that could lead to Russia maintaining control over Eastern Ukraine's Donbas region and the annexed Crimean Peninsula. In response, European leaders asserted that "international borders must not be changed by force," reaffirming their commitment to support Ukraine's autonomy and security.
Zelensky expressed gratitude towards European allies for their stance, insisting that a fair end to the war is essential not only for Ukraine but also for Europe’s security landscape. He conversed with French President Macron about the necessity of establishing strong security foundations to ensure that Russia is not allowed to deceive Ukraine or its allies in future negotiations.
As diplomatic engagements intensify, US Vice-President JD Vance met with UK officials and Zelensky's aides to discuss the vital role of Ukraine in securing a "reliable, lasting peace." The Alaska summit, marking the first formal meeting between American and Russian leaders since Joe Biden and Putin's Geneva talks, comes at a time when Ukrainian offensives strive to push back occupying Russian forces, underscoring the urgency of involving Kyiv in the peace process.
While the White House has indicated that Trump is open to a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the initial arrangement for the summit remains focused solely on Trump and Putin. Zelensky has made it clear that any agreements made without Ukraine’s involvement will be deemed "dead decisions". The Ukrainian president has stated that the prospect of exchanging territory, a suggestion from Trump, would only empower Russia to continue its aggression.
Reports indicate that the Biden administration is working to persuade European partners to accept terms that could lead to Russia maintaining control over Eastern Ukraine's Donbas region and the annexed Crimean Peninsula. In response, European leaders asserted that "international borders must not be changed by force," reaffirming their commitment to support Ukraine's autonomy and security.
Zelensky expressed gratitude towards European allies for their stance, insisting that a fair end to the war is essential not only for Ukraine but also for Europe’s security landscape. He conversed with French President Macron about the necessity of establishing strong security foundations to ensure that Russia is not allowed to deceive Ukraine or its allies in future negotiations.
As diplomatic engagements intensify, US Vice-President JD Vance met with UK officials and Zelensky's aides to discuss the vital role of Ukraine in securing a "reliable, lasting peace." The Alaska summit, marking the first formal meeting between American and Russian leaders since Joe Biden and Putin's Geneva talks, comes at a time when Ukrainian offensives strive to push back occupying Russian forces, underscoring the urgency of involving Kyiv in the peace process.
