European leaders gathered at the White House and highlighted Ukraine’s security as a critical issue for the whole continent. They expressed measured optimism that US President Donald Trump might gain momentum in fulfilling his campaign pledge to end Russia’s invasion. Leaders from France, Germany, Finland, Italy, and the UK, joined by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and NATO chief Mark Rutte, displayed solidarity with Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the meeting as progress marked by a “real sense of unity.” Ursula von der Leyen emphasized collective work toward “a lasting and durable peace.”
Calls for Ceasefire Alongside Security Guarantees
The European leaders praised Trump’s commitment to security guarantees but also raised the possibility of a temporary ceasefire. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the path toward halting the fighting had opened, though the process remained complicated. He admitted doubts beforehand but said his expectations were exceeded. Merz urged pressure on Russia and expressed his desire to see a ceasefire achieved. Trump offered no firm commitment, saying, “If we can do the ceasefire, great,” but clarified it was not essential. After his meeting with Putin, Trump abandoned his call for an immediate ceasefire and pivoted toward pursuing a final settlement, a position more aligned with Putin.
Future Meetings and Security Discussions
French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the US commitment to work with Europe on security guarantees as the most significant result. Macron announced plans for a bilateral meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy within days and a trilateral meeting with Trump within weeks. He voiced doubt about Putin’s readiness to end the war. Merz stressed that such talks must be well-prepared and confirmed work with Zelenskyy on arrangements. He insisted that Europe must fully participate in guaranteeing Ukraine’s security because the issue involves the continent’s political order, not just Ukraine’s territory. Asked about German peacekeepers, Merz said it was too early for a definitive answer. NATO chief Rutte explained that Ukraine’s membership was not under consideration but confirmed talks about “Article 5 kind of security guarantees.” Article 5 treats an attack on one member as an attack on all. Officials stated that details of US involvement would be decided soon, giving Zelenskyy clarity on Ukraine’s future safety under any peace settlement.
