European Leaders Reaffirm Support for Ukraine After Trump-Putin Talks
Several European leaders on Saturday pledged continued support for Ukraine and promised to maintain pressure on Russia until the war ends. The announcement came after a summit in Alaska between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Joint Statement From European Leaders
The joint statement was signed by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. It followed Trump’s briefing on his discussions with Putin.
According to the statement, the next step must include talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The leaders said they are ready to work with Trump and Zelenskiy toward a possible three-way summit, backed by European support.
Trump and Putin Push for Peace Settlement
After his meeting with Putin, Trump said Ukraine should strike a deal with Russia to end the war. Both leaders agreed that the best way forward would be a direct peace settlement rather than a temporary ceasefire. This stance contrasts with Kyiv and its European allies, who have opposed bypassing a ceasefire stage.
Europe’s Call for Security Guarantees
The European declaration was also signed by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, and European Council President Antonio Costa.
The statement stressed that Ukraine must receive ironclad security guarantees to protect its territorial integrity. It added:
- “Decisions on Ukraine’s territory belong to Ukraine.”
- “International borders cannot be changed by force.”
Commitment to Sanctions and Pressure on Russia
The European leaders pledged ongoing support:
- They will continue strengthening sanctions on Russia’s war economy.
- They vowed to increase broader economic measures until there is a just and lasting peace.
- They emphasized that as long as fighting continues, pressure on Russia will not ease.
Overall, the leaders stressed that their commitment to Ukraine’s defense will remain firm until the conflict ends with a fair and sustainable peace.
