European leaders met at the White House and emphasized Ukraine’s security as vital for all of Europe. They expressed cautious optimism that US President Donald Trump might advance his promise 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 Secretary General Mark Rutte, displayed unity with Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the meeting “real progress” and praised the “strong sense of unity.” Ursula von der Leyen highlighted that all parties collaborate toward “a lasting and durable peace.”
Ceasefire Discussions and Security Commitments
Leaders praised Trump’s commitment to Ukraine’s security but left open the possibility of a temporary ceasefire. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the path to halting the fighting is open, though next steps remain complex. He admitted surprise at the meeting’s success and said it exceeded his expectations. Merz urged pressure on Russia and expressed his hope for a ceasefire. Trump offered no firm commitment, saying, “If we can do the ceasefire, great,” and downplayed its urgency. After meeting Putin, Trump abandoned his immediate ceasefire demand and shifted to pursuing a final settlement, aligning more with Putin’s position.
Plans for Trilateral Talks and European Involvement
French President Emmanuel Macron described the US commitment to Ukraine’s security as the meeting’s most important outcome. He said leaders plan a bilateral meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy in the coming days and a trilateral meeting with Trump within two to three weeks. Macron expressed doubts about Putin’s willingness to end the war. Merz emphasized careful preparation for the talks and coordination with Zelenskyy. He stressed that Europe must participate fully in security guarantees because the issue affects the continent’s political order, not just Ukraine. When asked about German peacekeeping forces, Merz said it was too early to decide. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte clarified that Ukraine’s membership is not under consideration but confirmed discussions about “Article 5 type security guarantees.” Article 5 treats attacks on one member as attacks on all. Leaders said they would finalize US involvement in the coming days to give Zelenskyy clarity on Ukraine’s safety under any peace agreement.
