European leaders will hold consultations with US President Donald Trump this week ahead of his planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as they seek to influence talks that could shape Europe’s long-term security and determine the future of Ukraine.
Germany has called a virtual meeting on Wednesday, bringing together the leaders of Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Poland, and Finland, along with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to discuss Russian-occupied territories, possible ceasefire terms, and security guarantees for Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President António Costa will also attend.
Following this meeting, the European leaders will join Trump, US Vice-President JD Vance, and Zelenskyy in a video conference. EU foreign affairs ministers will also meet online to reinforce unity and ensure Ukraine is not pressured into accepting unfavorable terms.
Concerns Over Alaska Summit with Putin
The diplomatic activity comes ahead of a US-hosted summit in Alaska on Friday between Trump and Putin, from which both Europe and Ukraine are excluded. Trump’s decision to meet Putin without Zelenskyy present has unsettled several European capitals.
“This is a feel-out meeting,” Trump said on Monday, adding that Putin had invited him to get involved in resolving the conflict. He noted his disappointment over continued Russian missile strikes despite previous conversations.
European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, have expressed alarm. They fear the bilateral talks could pave the way for territorial concessions — an idea floated by Trump in the form of “territorial swaps,” which would allow Russia to consolidate its hold over parts of Ukraine, even those it does not currently control.
Push for Stronger Pressure on Russia
At the weekend, European and Ukrainian security advisers urged Washington to increase pressure on Moscow through sanctions threats. Merz stressed that “Putin only acts under pressure” and has lobbied for Zelenskyy’s participation in the Alaska meeting, in person or virtually. Trump has said Zelenskyy will attend a future meeting with Putin.
NATO’s Rutte underscored that any talks must distinguish between acknowledging Russia’s de facto control over certain areas and granting legal recognition. “It has to be effectual recognition, not political, de jure recognition,” he said.
Western Leaders Emphasize Security Guarantees
Starmer’s office stated that the UK would support Ukraine and Trump in the negotiations but warned that a ceasefire must not give Putin the opportunity to re-arm. Meeting Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney later on Monday, Starmer reaffirmed “unwavering support for Ukraine” and stressed that peace “must be built with Ukraine — not imposed upon it.”
Zelenskyy remains in close contact with international partners, saying, “Now is the moment when there is a real chance to achieve peace. But peace must be real and lasting, and security guarantees must be in place.”
