With U.S. President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin set to meet in Alaska, European capitals are sending a clear message: Ukraine must stay at the center of any peace deal.
Earlier this week, Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff held a three-hour session with President Putin, describing the talks as constructive. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance met British Foreign Secretary David Lammy alongside representatives of Ukraine and European partners at Chevening House, southeast of London, to discuss the path to diplomacy.
In a joint statement, leaders from France, Italy, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, Finland and the president of the European Commission welcomed diplomatic efforts but stressed the need to maintain support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia. Key takeaways included:
- “We share the conviction that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine's and Europe's vital security interests.”
- “Robust and credible security guarantees are essential for Ukraine to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
- “The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine.”
- “International borders must not be changed by force, and the current line of contact should serve as the starting point for negotiations.”
For young global citizens, business innovators and thought leaders, Europe's stance underscores the real-world impact of collective security and diplomacy. As Trump and Putin prepare to sit down, the world will watch to see if these warnings translate into concrete measures that safeguard Ukraine and shape the future of European stability.
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Europe stresses need to protect Ukraine ahead of Trump-Putin talks
cgtn.com
