European leaders met at the White House to discuss Ukraine’s security and stressed its importance for all of Europe. They expressed cautious optimism that US President Donald Trump might gain traction in fulfilling his pledge 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 chief Mark Rutte, presented a unified front with Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the talks as making “real progress” and showing “a real sense of unity.” Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that all parties work together toward “a lasting and durable peace.”
Praise and Possibility of Ceasefire
European leaders praised Trump for committing to security guarantees but also left open the possibility of a temporary ceasefire. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the path to halting fighting had opened, though future steps remained complex. He admitted he had doubts beforehand but added that the talks exceeded his expectations. Merz urged applying pressure on Russia and expressed hope for a ceasefire. Trump avoided committing firmly, saying, “If we can do the ceasefire, great,” while signaling it was not essential. After meeting Putin on Friday, Trump abandoned demands for an immediate ceasefire and shifted focus toward negotiating a final peace settlement with Russia.
Planning Trilateral Talks and Security Guarantees
French President Emmanuel Macron called the US commitment to provide security guarantees the most important outcome. Macron said the leaders plan a bilateral meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy in the coming days and a trilateral meeting including Trump within two to three weeks. He expressed strong doubt about Putin’s willingness to end the war. Merz emphasized that meetings must be carefully prepared and confirmed collaboration with Zelenskyy. He stressed that all of Europe should participate in security guarantees, which concern the continent’s political order, not only Ukraine’s territory. On German peacekeeping troops, Merz said it was too early for a final decision. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed leaders discussed “Article 5 type” security guarantees but ruled out membership. Article 5 considers an attack on one member as an attack on all. Officials said the US will clarify its role in Ukraine soon, helping Zelenskyy assess whether Ukrainians can remain safe under any peace agreement.
