High-stakes negotiations that could shape the future of Eastern Europe must include Ukraine, according to leading European diplomats, following an agreement between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to initiate discussions.
“Peace can only be achieved together. And that means: with Ukraine and with the Europeans,”
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized in a conversation with POLITICO after Trump announced the upcoming dialogue. She stated, “We must take this path together so that peace returns to Europe.”
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže also expressed her views on the necessity of Ukrainian involvement, asserting that “Ukrainian agency in any peace talks is crucially important.” She highlighted that for any diplomatic effort to be successful, it is essential to weaken Russia on the battlefield, given that the nation’s various sectors are oriented towards hostility.
Diplomatic Developments and Responses
The Kremlin reported that Trump and Putin engaged in a 90-minute conversation. Trump subsequently announced on Truth Social that both leaders have “agreed to have our respective teams start negotiations immediately.” He also mentioned plans to inform Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of their discussion.
In a statement made earlier, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth indicated that Ukraine will not be joining NATO, thus placing the responsibility of defense on Europe. Zelenskyy responded vehemently, asserting that “Putin does not want to end the war,” and urged Trump to provide “real security guarantees.”
Zelenskyy conveyed his commitment to peace, stating, “No one wants peace more than Ukraine. Together with the U.S., we are charting our next steps to stop Russian aggression and ensure a lasting, reliable peace. As President Trump said, let’s get it done.”
Ongoing Support for Ukraine
Following his discussions with Trump, Zelenskyy mentioned, “We agreed to maintain further contact and plan upcoming meetings.” Trump confirmed that Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio would meet with Zelenskyy in Munich on Friday.
Baiba Braže, who recently visited Washington for talks with Trump’s political allies, reiterated that her focus will remain on providing military and other forms of support for Ukraine. She stated, “Degrading Russia’s military capabilities is the way to peace. Investing in Ukraine’s strength is investing in peace. And making Russia weaker is investing in peace. And sanctions and their effective implementation is an important element in that.”
Concerns have long existed among European officials regarding Trump’s historically close relationship with Putin, potentially sidelining them from crucial discussions about the continent’s future. Trump’s past remarks, labeling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine as “genius” and “savvy,” have raised alarms.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently called for a united front against Russia, asserting, “No one wants peace more than the people of Ukraine. But there is only one path to the just and lasting peace they are longing for. And this runs through military and financial strength for Ukraine.”
Veronika Melkozerova contributed to this report from Kyiv.