Zelensky Thanks EU Leaders for Ukraine Summit Support

European Unity for Ukraine's Peace Role

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to European leaders for their joint declaration supporting Ukraine's participation in peace negotiations. This endorsement precedes Friday's critical summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump in Alaska.

Putin's Territorial Demands

According to The Wall Street Journal, Putin conveyed through US diplomat Witkoff that Russia would cease hostilities if Ukraine cedes the Donbas region. Zelensky firmly rejected territorial concessions, stating decisions made without Ukraine would be "stillborn and unworkable".

EU's Collective Position

Leaders from Germany, France, UK, Poland, Finland, Italy, and the European Commission endorsed Ukraine's negotiating role. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof affirmed: "Ukraine decides its future. Netherlands stands shoulder-to-shoulder with allies."

Trump's Complex Mediation

President Trump acknowledged potential territory exchanges while announcing sanctions against nations purchasing Russian oil, including tariffs on India. European diplomats worry Putin may exploit the Alaska summit to evade sanctions.

Exclusion Concerns

Putin refuses direct talks with Zelensky, claiming "preconditions remain unmet." While Trump hasn't ruled out Ukrainian involvement, White House officials indicate any Zelensky participation would follow the Putin-Trump meeting.

Russia criticized EU alternative proposals, with former President Medvedev labeling European leaders "euro-imbeciles" allegedly obstructing US peace efforts.