European Leaders Express Support for Ukraine Amid Unease over Trump’s Negotiations
On the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, European leaders gathered in Kyiv to reaffirm their support for the embattled nation. However, concerns arose over the role of former U.S. President Donald Trump in ongoing peace talks with Russia.
Friedrich Merz, the newly elected conservative leader of Germany, has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine. "More than ever, we must put Ukraine in a position of strength," Merz wrote on social media. "For a fair peace, the country that is under attack must be part of peace negotiations."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed dissatisfaction with the exclusion of Ukraine from recent talks between U.S. and Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia. "A dozen leaders from Europe and Canada joined Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Monday to commemorate the anniversary of the invasion.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged their support for Ukraine during the anniversary events. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine "resolutely." "Germany stands firmly beside Ukraine, with humanitarian aid, with protection for refugees, with military support," Steinmeier stated.
However, tensions escalated between Trump and Zelenskyy, with Trump criticizing the Ukrainian leader’s handling of the conflict. In response, Zelenskyy accused Trump of living in a "disinformation space."
Vice President JD Vance warned that Zelenskyy’s public criticism of Trump could hinder peace efforts. Former National Security Advisor John Bolton condemned Trump’s remarks as "shameful."
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy met with Senator Lindsey Graham, an ally of Trump. Trump also had phone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelenskyy last week. Trump’s envoy to Kyiv, Keith Kellogg, visited Ukraine last Wednesday.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that peace negotiations with Russia must involve Ukraine and Europe. "You can discuss whatever you want with Putin. But if it comes to Europe or Ukraine, then Ukraine and Europe also have to agree to this deal," Kallas said.
In Brussels, Kallas accused the Trump administration of taking pro-Russian positions. She also highlighted the need for a united front against the "Russian narrative" in the United States.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof called for a "clear message" to Russia that certain matters were non-negotiable, including Ukraine’s potential membership in the European Union and NATO.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb stressed the need for a "plan for Ukrainian victory." He expressed confidence in Ukraine’s eventual accession to NATO.
Czech President Petr Pavel praised the resilience of the Ukrainian people and emphasized that peace must not come at any cost.
Russia’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, stated that Russia sees no way to resume dialogue with Europe after the EU imposed a 16th round of sanctions on the anniversary of the invasion.
The sanctions target vessels used to transport oil and gas, entities supporting drone operations, and media outlets spreading propaganda. Asset freezes and travel bans were also imposed on individuals and entities.
Peskov accused European nations of prolonging the conflict by imposing new sanctions. He welcomed U.S. efforts to understand the root causes of the conflict.
Meanwhile, the UN General Assembly is expected to vote on dueling resolutions: Ukraine’s proposal for a Russian troop withdrawal and a U.S. call for an end to the war without specifically blaming Russia.
In conclusion, European leaders expressed strong support for Ukraine while raising concerns about the role of former President Trump in peace negotiations. The tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy, coupled with the imposition of new sanctions by the EU, cast uncertainty over the future of the conflict.
