EU EU leaders say Ukraine should have freedom to decide.

[CharlieH]

 

Statement on Ukrainian sovereignty endorsed by all European Union leaders except for Hungary’s Viktor Orbán

 

 

Ahead of the crucial Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, nearly all European leaders have declared that Ukrainians must be allowed to determine their own future. This declaration comes as tensions rise over potential outcomes of the meeting, which could see significant decisions made about Ukraine without its participation.

In their joint statement, European leaders emphasised that any meaningful negotiations require a ceasefire or reduction in hostilities. They stressed the importance of a diplomatic solution that safeguards both Ukraine's and Europe's security interests.

 

Issued on Tuesday, the statement gained unanimous support from EU countries except Hungary. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a known ally of Putin, was the only dissenting voice, highlighting his previous attempts to block EU support for Ukraine.

Europeans are striving to exert influence over the summit, wary of being sidelined. Trump has confirmed that the discussions with Putin will involve "land swapping," raising concerns about potential concessions.

 

With Putin having instigated the largest land war in Europe since 1945, Europeans and Ukrainians fear he might secure favourable terms that reshape the region’s landscape without their input. The statement from EU leaders is a symbol of unity, despite Hungary's reluctance.

The leaders also applauded Trump's efforts to end Russia’s aggression but reiterated that a durable peace must involve Ukraine. They insisted any agreement must respect Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law principles.

 

President Zelenskyy has been firm in rejecting the idea of ceding territory to achieve peace. Currently, Russia maintains unstable control over parts of four Ukrainian regions.Trump, known for his confidence in deal-making, tempered expectations for immediate breakthroughs but indicated a willingness to engage in “constructive conversations” with Putin. He suggested various outcomes based on the talks' direction, expressing openness to report outcomes to European and NATO leaders, as well as President Zelenskyy.

 

On Monday, Trump expressed criticism of Zelenskyy, noting his leadership span during the conflict and implying a lack of progress. This remark adds tension to the discussions, with European leaders eager to ensure continued support for Ukraine.

In a further effort to rally support, European leaders will engage in virtual meetings led by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. While Trump’s participation in these talks is unconfirmed, he has stated intentions to gather diverse opinions before his meeting with Putin.

 

This diplomatic effort underscores the EU's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty while highlighting internal divisions on the issue. The ongoing situation remains a complex challenge for international diplomacy, with all eyes on the upcoming summit’s potential ramifications for Ukraine and Europe.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Guardian 2025-08-12

 

[dinsdale]

He's got no choice. Donbas is in real trouble with encirclement of several cities and a collapse in the main defence line where Russian troops moved through in a large movement yesterday (15-19 km infantry only breakthrough) Crimea is gone. Putin has the upper hand. 

[lordgrinz]

Unless they are willing to back it up by initiating WWIII, the EU is doing nothing more than posturing for the press.