Urgent Ukraine War Update: European Leaders Call for Increased Pressure on Russia Before Trump-Putin Talks

European leaders are emphasizing the importance of maintaining pressure on Moscow while prioritizing the security of both Ukraine and Europe. Recently, a joint statement from leaders of France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Britain, and Finland highlighted that any resolution regarding Ukraine must include its perspective. They stressed that true peace talks can only happen if hostilities lessen first. Their goal is to merge strong diplomacy with support for Ukraine, alongside a push for Russia to conclude its military actions. They are calling for clear security guarantees to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty.

In a parallel discussion, U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and other allies at Chevening House to address Trump’s peace initiative. European representatives presented a counterproposal, insisting that a ceasefire is essential before any negotiations can proceed, and that any territorial exchanges must be fair. The Wall Street Journal noted that one advisor remarked, “You can’t start a process by ceding territory in the middle of fighting.” The White House has not yet commented on this counterproposal.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy firmly rejected any notion of trading land for peace. He stated, “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier.” Following the Chevening meeting, Zelenskyy expressed that the talks were productive, reaffirming that Ukraine’s path to peace must include its input and perspectives.

French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this sentiment, asserting that any negotiations must involve Ukrainians, who have fought tirelessly for their freedom over the past three years. He reiterated that European security is closely tied to Ukraine’s fate.

Meanwhile, as diplomatic efforts unfold, the conflict continues. Tragically, two individuals were killed, and 16 others injured when a Russian drone struck a minibus in Kherson. Additional casualties were reported from a drone attack in the Zaporizhzhia region. Ukraine’s air force managed to intercept a significant number of Russian drones during this wave of attacks.

As the situation evolves, these discussions highlight the complexity of seeking peace in a conflict marked by deep divisions and ongoing violence. The necessity for a collaborative approach that honors Ukraine’s sovereignty remains clear in the minds of leaders across Europe and beyond.



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