European Union leaders have called on U.S. President Donald Trump to advocate for their security interests during an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin scheduled for March 2024. This summit, focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine, has raised concerns among EU officials regarding their exclusion from critical discussions about the conflict.
The leaders expressed their desperation to influence the outcome of the summit, particularly given that it is unclear whether Ukraine will have a seat at the table. Trump has stated his intention to evaluate whether Putin is genuinely committed to ending the war, which has persisted for nearly four years. However, his previous comments suggesting that Ukraine might need to concede territory to Russia have left European allies uneasy.
In a statement released earlier this week, the EU leaders emphasized their support for Trump’s efforts to bring an end to Russia’s aggression but firmly stated, “the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine.” They reiterated the necessity for any resolution to respect international law, including principles of independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has staunchly rejected the notion that Ukraine should agree to territorial concessions for a ceasefire. Currently, Russia maintains control over four regions in Ukraine, two located in the eastern part of the country and two in the south. European countries are particularly concerned about the implications for regional security should Putin secure advantageous concessions during the summit.
On Monday, Trump reiterated his stance on potential land swaps, suggesting that negotiations could involve “some bad stuff for both” Ukraine and Russia. His recent remarks, which include a public rehabilitation of Putin, have raised alarm among Ukraine’s supporters, as they fear a shift in U.S. policy that could undermine their position.
Further complicating the situation, Trump criticized Zelenskyy, highlighting that the Ukrainian leader has been in power throughout the war yet has achieved little. In contrast, Trump noted Putin’s longstanding and unchallenged authority in Russia.
The summit will take place in Alaska, a location historically significant due to its colonial past involving Russia. Trump’s announcement of his travel plans to meet with Putin has left European leaders apprehensive about the implications for their collective security interests.
On Wednesday, EU leaders plan to reconvene at virtual meetings hosted by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to rally support for Ukraine’s cause. While Trump has not confirmed his participation, he expressed an interest in gathering opinions prior to his meeting with Putin.
The statement issued by EU leaders was also intended to showcase unity among the member states. Notably, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, known for his close ties to Putin and opposition to EU support for Ukraine, refrained from endorsing the collective statement, marking a significant point of contention among the 27 EU leaders.
As the summit approaches, the stakes remain high for both Ukraine and Europe, with uncertainty surrounding the outcomes of discussions that could profoundly impact the region’s security landscape.
