On December 11, 2025, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that European leaders have sent a proposal on Ukrainian territorial concessions to U.S. President Donald Trump, marking a significant step in transatlantic diplomacy over the war in Ukraine.
Speaking alongside visiting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Merz explained that the move follows a series of high-level calls on December 10 with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “We have clearly conveyed to President Trump that any discussion on Ukrainian territorial concessions must first involve the Ukrainian president and the Ukrainian people,” he said.
Merz noted that further talks with the U.S. government are scheduled for the weekend of December 13–14, with a potential follow-up meeting in Berlin early next week. He added, “Whether the U.S. government will participate depends very much on the joint drafting of the papers that are currently being worked on.”
The proposal aims to safeguard European security interests while preserving the unity of the European Union and NATO. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders, the unfolding negotiations underscore the delicate balance between diplomatic pressure and respect for national sovereignty.
As discussions intensify, the world will be watching how this EU initiative shapes the roadmap for peace in Ukraine and reinforces transatlantic cooperation in a rapidly evolving security landscape.
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EU proposal on Ukrainian territorial concessions sent to U.S.
cgtn.com
