BRUSSELS: European leaders strongly cautioned against a potential deal between U.S. President Donald Trump and Moscow regarding the Ukraine conflict, warning that any agreement excluding Kyiv and its allies would be ineffective.
During a NATO meeting, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed concerns that Washington was abandoning Ukraine, despite Trump’s surprise announcement that he had initiated peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
However, the unexpected move alarmed European allies, many of whom openly criticized the approach. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz rejected any notion of an imposed settlement, while Germany’s defense minister lamented what he saw as early concessions to the Kremlin.
Europe’s Stand
Speaking at the NATO summit in Brussels, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that no behind-the-scenes agreement would succeed. She accused Washington of yielding to Russia, asserting, “Any quick fix is a dirty deal. It simply will not work.”
Ukraine’s Position
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirmed that his country would not accept any agreement made without its direct involvement. Speaking at a nuclear plant en route to the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky stated, “As an independent nation, we will not accept any agreements without our participation.”
He stressed that Russia’s intent was to engage in exclusive bilateral negotiations with the U.S., adding, “It is essential that the U.S. and Ukraine first outline a plan for ending the war before engaging with Russia.”
U.S. and Russia Talks
Following a 90-minute call with Putin, his first since returning to office, Trump announced plans to meet the Russian leader in Saudi Arabia for peace negotiations. This fueled concerns that Ukraine could be sidelined from crucial discussions.
Hegseth defended the move, insisting, “There is no betrayal. The entire world, including the U.S., is committed to achieving peace. Both sides will need to make compromises.”
Trump denied any exclusion of Ukraine from negotiations, asserting that Kyiv would be involved in any settlement. The Kremlin, meanwhile, expressed optimism, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that both leaders recognized the urgency of working together on European security.
European Fears and NATO’s Response
The Kremlin praised Trump’s willingness to resolve the conflict, confirming that discussions were underway for a direct meeting between the two leaders.
Following his conversation with Putin, Trump briefed Zelensky on their discussions. Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov reassured NATO allies, stating, “We remain strong, capable, and determined to see this through.”
European NATO members remain deeply concerned that Trump could pressure Ukraine into an unfavorable agreement, leaving them to bear the burden of post-war security while facing a strengthened Russia.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stressed the need for Kyiv’s full participation in any negotiations, emphasizing, “It is crucial that Ukraine is closely involved in shaping its future.”
