After latest negotiation rounds on Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky met with UK Prime Minister, French President, and other leaders. Initial statements were made by Emmanuel Macron of France, Britain’s Keir Starmer, and German politician Friedrich Merz, focusing on diplomatic steps, support for Ukraine, and the peace process.
Merz expressed skepticism over some details in US proposals but reaffirmed ongoing support for Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of direct leader dialogue during these pivotal times. Macron noted that Ukraine and Europe now hold stronger cards in the talks, especially with growing economic pressure on Russia due to sanctions.
Media reports indicate Donald Trump demanded that Ukraine withdraw from Donbas, a scenario opposed by Ukraine. Meanwhile, Putin rejected Trump’s peace offer, calculating he might gain an advantage on the battlefield.
A joint statement by the Élysée Palace highlighted discussions about security guarantees and Ukraine's future recovery, as well as continued efforts on a peace plan. Zelensky underlined the difficulty of reaching a shared vision on Donbas negotiations among partners.
European leaders called for greater support for Ukraine and participation in common security initiatives. A new stage of high-level negotiations is being prepared, with key meetings expected soon in Brussels involving NATO and EU leadership.
