What’s New
European Union leaders reaffirmed on Thursday that no decisions regarding Ukraine’s future can be made without its direct involvement. The declaration came during a summit in Brussels with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasizing solidarity with the war-torn nation.
As Ukraine faces ongoing military and infrastructural challenges, EU leaders stressed their commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s position ahead of any potential peace negotiations.
Why It Matters
The meeting took place as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office in January, raising concerns about his plans for swiftly ending the war in Ukraine. Trump’s previous admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin has sparked apprehension across Europe about a potential settlement that could leave Ukraine in a weakened state.
Ukraine has endured more than 1,000 days of conflict with Russia, which has steadily advanced westward, inflicting significant damage to the country’s energy grid and straining its military capabilities. The EU has provided over $187 billion in economic and military aid to Ukraine, but its military support pales in comparison to what the U.S. offers.
What to Know
European leaders are wary of what Trump’s return to the White House might mean for Ukraine. His previous foreign policy decisions, such as the 2020 deal with the Taliban, have left lingering doubts about his approach to global conflicts. Additionally, any interim period of uncertainty could provide Russia with an opportunity to regroup and escalate the conflict.
Rumors of peace talks slated for early 2025 have stirred speculation about the potential deployment of European peacekeepers. However, EU leaders are cautious not to disclose their strategies publicly, emphasizing the need to empower Ukraine for negotiations.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted the importance of long-term support, particularly in the form of air defense, artillery, and ammunition.
What People Are Saying
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: “Only together the United States and Europe can stop Putin and save Ukraine. It’s very difficult to support Ukraine without American help.”
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: “The principle is always: no decisions over Ukrainians’ heads, and that of course means over those of the European states.”
Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden: “Every step needs to be taken with Ukraine and in the presence of the European Union.”
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof: Reinforced that Ukraine must be the country that “determines under what conditions talks can possibly take place. And it is not for us to talk about that. At the moment, Ukraine has not yet indicated that they are prepared to do so.”
What Happens Next
The EU’s focus remains on bolstering Ukraine‘s defenses and securing alignment with the incoming U.S. administration. While the path forward is uncertain, European leaders continue to prepare for potential peace talks, ensuring Ukraine’s interests are prioritized in any resolution.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
