The European Union has welcomed the recent meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing it as a step toward ending the war in Ukraine. EU leaders issued a joint statement emphasizing their support for U.S. efforts to halt the violence and pursue a “just and lasting peace.”
According to the statement, the next step should involve trilateral negotiations that include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. European leaders underlined their readiness to work with both Trump and Zelensky to ensure the success of such a meeting.
“Ukraine must be guaranteed strong security assurances to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the statement read. The EU also welcomed Trump’s pledge that the United States is prepared to provide such guarantees, while reaffirming that the Coalition of the Willing stands ready to play an active role.
The declaration stressed that Russia cannot hold veto power over Ukraine’s path toward the European Union and NATO, and that no restrictions should be placed on Ukraine’s armed forces or its cooperation with partner countries.
“Decisions about Ukraine’s territory rest solely with Ukraine. International borders cannot be changed by force. We remain committed to keeping Ukraine strong so that fighting can end and a sustainable peace can be achieved,” the EU leaders added, vowing to increase sanctions and economic pressure on Russia.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas reinforced the message, stating that while Brussels is fully prepared to support peace efforts, the United States holds the leverage to push Moscow toward serious negotiations.
“The U.S. has the power to compel Russia to negotiate. The EU will continue working with Ukraine and Washington to ensure Russia’s aggression fails and that any peace is durable. Moscow will not end this war until it realizes it cannot continue on this path,” Kallas said.
The EU’s call comes amid growing international efforts to end the conflict, with Kyiv insisting that any settlement must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and internationally recognized borders.
