European leaders expressed support for President Trump’s attempts to facilitate peace in Ukraine during a recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. They emphasized the need for stronger “iron-clad security assurances” after the discussions in Anchorage, Alaska.
Trump called for NATO and European leaders post-summit but notably did not include Ukrainian President Voldy Mirzelensky in discussions. He described the meeting as “productive,” though it didn’t yield a ceasefire agreement.
A coalition of EU leaders, referred to as the “coalition of ambitiousness,” indicated their willingness to collaborate with the U.S. and Ukraine in anticipation of a potential trilateral summit with Putin and Zelensky. They articulated that Ukraine needs robust security guarantees to effectively safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“We appreciate President Trump’s assertion that the U.S. is prepared to offer such security guarantees,” they stated, while noting some conditions as well.
They further mentioned, “The coalition is poised to take an active role. There should be no limitations on Ukrainian military operations or collaborations with third parties. Russia should not hold veto power over Ukrainian pathways to the EU and NATO.”
The group reiterated Trump’s stance: “There will be no deals until there is a deal.” They stressed that further consultations are necessary, including an upcoming meeting with President Zelensky.
Zelensky is set to visit the White House on Monday, marking the first visit by a Ukrainian leader since the significant events earlier this year. While they have met briefly at Pope Francis’ funeral in the Vatican, this visit is more formal.
The previous day, Trump and Putin engaged in discussions lasting about three hours at Elmendorf Richardson’s joint base. Post-summit, they remained tight-lipped about the progress made towards resolving the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe, avoiding questions from the media.
In a later interview, Fox News’ Sean Hannity remarked that “forgetting” past grievances would be essential for progress. He mentioned that both leaders found common ground during their talks but indicated that it ultimately falls to President Zelensky to finalize arrangements.
Trump added that European nations also need to step up their involvement. He mentioned, “I also told Hannity I wouldn’t mind participating in future meetings, but it’s crucial to achieve results.”
Earlier in the day, Trump stated he would not take on the role of negotiator for Ukraine, which wasn’t part of the summit discussions.
The EU leaders reiterated their commitment to supporting Ukraine and maintaining pressure on Moscow. “Our backing for Ukraine will persist. We are resolute in doing more to fortify Ukraine and work towards a just and lasting peace,” they declared. They plan to intensify sanctions and wider economic measures against Russia’s war efforts until peace is achieved.
“Ukraine can depend on our unwavering solidarity in safeguarding crucial security interests for both Ukraine and Europe,” they concluded.
The coalition features French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Kiel Starmer, Finnish President Alexander Stabb, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Antonio Costa of the Council of Europe, and Ursula von der Leyen from the European Commission.
