Former President Donald Trump has an opportunity to embarrass himself on the world stage again. It is perhaps with this goal in mind that he seeks to holder curbs talks that may eventually see the current war in Ukraine put to rest. Tension is still palpable, even as Trump tweeted that the two sides were near a deal. European leaders, spearheaded by Ukrainian leadership like President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the other hand, warn against making concessions to Russia. A more pointed conversation is set for Wednesday, where the leaders will have the chance to directly address concerns with both Trump and U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
Today’s continuing discussions, choppy as they may have become, are in many ways grounded in Trump’s self-described position as a dealmaker extraordinaire. He argues he is positioned “in the middle, not on the side of Russia.” This position would increase the risk for Ukraine and Ukraine’s European allies. Under this pressure, Zelenskyy and other leaders across Europe worry that making major concessions to Russia will set a dangerous precedent that endangers security across the region.
European Leaders Express Concerns
Trump is preparing for his own uncharted summit. At the same time, European leaders have been unabashedly making declarations of support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Secondly, they argue that any peace negotiations to end the Ukraine conflict should involve discussion from Ukraine.
“We underline our unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine,” – Heads of state from France, Italy, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom and the European Commission.
The leaders’ collective stance is clear. They argue that the way to peace can only be figured out without fundamental and active involvement of Ukraine. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz articulated this sentiment, stating, “We cannot accept that territorial issues between Russia and America are discussed or even decided over the heads of Europeans, over the heads of Ukrainians.”
Kaja Kallas, prime minister of Estonia and one of the most influential leaders in European politics today, helped bolster calls to bring Ukraine to the table. She noted that “the US has the power to force Russia to negotiate seriously,” underscoring the importance of a collaborative approach to ensure stability across Europe.
Trump’s Approach to Mediation
In the middle of all these diplomatic discussions, Trump has drawn the most astounded headlines with his comments about using territorial compromise as a bargaining chip. He pointed to the prospect of gaining “some change in territory” as one aspect of a potential deal. Zelenskyy lambasted his statements. He went on the record to declare unequivocally that he lacks the authority to approve any such land swaps.
Zelenskyy expressed skepticism about Russia’s intentions, claiming there is “no indication whatsoever that the Russians have received signals to prepare for a post-war situation.” He reiterated his strong opposition to any proposals that would have Ukraine give up territory in return for peace.
“If someone is preparing for peace, this is not what he does,” – Zelenskyy.
For all their disagreements, Trump has openly attacked Zelenskyy’s refusal to negotiate on territorial losses. This criticism has only further inflamed worries among European leaders at the prospect of any deal that could risk Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
The Stakes of the Upcoming Meeting
The backdrop of Trump’s meeting with Putin looms large as both leaders prepare to discuss Russia’s proposed peace agreement. On Friday, Ukraine accepted Russia’s ultimatum to surrender its eastern Donetsk region in return for a ceasefire. Ukraine has unequivocally rejected this proposal.
European leaders are still at it, meeting with Ukrainian leadership and reiterating their support for Ukraine’s stance on any negotiations, that any deal should put Ukrainian sovereignty first. They contend that caving to major Arab demands could lead to future security threats. This is a problem not just for Ukraine but for all of Europe.
“Any deal between the US and Russia must have Ukraine and the EU included, for it is a matter of Ukraine’s and the whole of Europe’s security,” – Kaja Kallas.
While Trump intends to pressure Putin to “end this war,” Zelenskyy remains wary of any outcomes arising from their discussions. He argues that there can be no peace based on concessions harmful to Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty.
