European leaders gathered in Berlin on Wednesday to rally support for U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of his high-stakes Alaska summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Hosted by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, the meeting brought together Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and heads of state from France, the UK, Italy, Poland, Finland, as well as leaders from the European Union and NATO.
The group concluded with a video call featuring President Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Participants said discussions zeroed in on conditions for a sustainable peace process in Ukraine, setting the stage for Friday's talks in Alaska.
French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted a key consensus: "Territorial issues cannot be negotiated without Ukraine." Trump echoed this stance, stating his primary goal is to secure a ceasefire.
President Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine's red lines, insisting negotiations start only after hostilities end and robust security guarantees are in place. "There's no sign that Russia seeks to end the war without continued international pressure," he said, adding that Ukraine "cannot agree to a deal requiring withdrawal from the Donbas region."
Chancellor Merz described the session as "constructive," praising the unified message delivered to their American counterparts. As global eyes turn to Alaska, this show of solidarity may shape the future of the Ukraine peace roadmap.
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European leaders push Trump ahead of his Alaska summit with Putin
cgtn.com
