European diplomats emphasized the importance of involving Ukraine and Europe in any initiatives aimed at halting Russia’s invasion of its neighboring country. Talks of a confidential peace proposal added pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who is simultaneously defending Ukraine against Russia, seeking support from European leaders, and addressing a significant corruption scandal within the energy sector. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stressed the necessity of Ukrainian and European participation for any plan to succeed during a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul echoed the sentiment, stating that negotiations concerning a ceasefire and the future of Ukraine must involve Ukraine and Europe. The details of the reported peace plan, allegedly drafted by U.S. and Russian envoys and potentially involving territorial concessions from Ukraine, remained unclear, with President Zelenskyy rejecting the notion of ceding territory.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned on a social platform that American officials are working on potential ideas for a lasting peace agreement that would require difficult concessions from both sides. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov clarified that there are ongoing contacts but not formal consultations with the U.S. regarding ending the conflict in Ukraine.
European leaders expressed concerns about potential sidelining by the Trump administration in peace efforts and emphasized the need for European involvement due to their significant support for Ukraine. EU diplomats criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for purportedly insincere peace intentions while continuing to target civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.
The decision by Trump to halt direct military aid to Ukraine has shifted the responsibility to European countries, which have been procuring weaponry from the U.S. to support Ukraine. European leaders highlighted their pivotal role in supporting Ukraine and emphasized the importance of consulting with Europe in peace negotiations.
