German publication Spiegel has revealed the contents of a closed-door phone call between European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The primary focus of the conversation was concern among European officials regarding the potential impact of Donald Trump’s administration on US policy towards the war in Ukraine, including the possibility of the US refusing security guarantees for Kyiv.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted the risk that the new US administration could push Ukraine into territorial concessions and leave the country without clear security guarantees. The conversation noted the ongoing issue in world politics of discussing vague concepts that lack realistic content, which complicates international negotiations.
European leaders also expressed reservations about Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, whom Trump reportedly chose as intermediaries for ending the Russian-Ukrainian war. EU officials doubt their political competence and point to their close ties with Trump and financial interests.
Despite these concerns, European partners remain united in their support for Ukraine and are aware of the risks posed by unilateral decisions from Trump’s team, fearing it may pave the way for compromising with Moscow at the expense of Ukrainian and European interests.
The discussion emphasized that only with European unity and sustained support can Ukraine maintain its resistance, especially if the conflict escalates. European leaders recognize the threat posed to Europe’s security should Russia realize its territorial ambitions.
In summary, the leaked call demonstrates that without Europe’s involvement in settling Ukraine’s future and the Russia-Ukraine war, effective resistance against aggression will be much more difficult and could jeopardize European stability.
