Key consultations on the possible end of the war in Ukraine are currently underway in Geneva. International media highlight these negotiations as crucial and potentially dangerous for both Ukraine and Europe. Analyst Valeriy Kluchok points out that the core document forming the basis of negotiations was previously agreed with Russia, a fact confirmed by representatives of Donald Trump’s team.
At the same time, according to the expert, European countries are showing willingness to support Ukraine, regarding delaying decisions as a tactic to safeguard their own security. Countries of Northern Europe are especially proactive. However, Kluchok notes that Europe is trying to negotiate with the US while avoiding direct conflict. It is expected that the final US-proposed peace plan may be rejected by European leaders.
The expert analyzes the EU’s counterproposals discussed in Geneva, which include the absence of restrictions for Ukraine’s Armed Forces, the return of control over the Kakhovka dam, and access to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. He emphasizes that agreements are possible only on certain points, while key discrepancies remain.
Valeriy Kluchok also highlights that strengthening Ukraine’s own defense capabilities and mobilizing internal resources are priorities. He underscores the importance of judicial and military reforms and effective government procurement. The expert believes that Europeans and Americans have different attitudes toward Ukraine’s authorities: skepticism in the US contrasts with European interest in maintaining Ukraine’s political stability.
Kluchok concludes that Europe’s main interest in Ukraine lies in its own security, and stresses that Ukraine should leverage all arguments to strengthen its position at the international negotiating table.
