European leaders gathered at the White House to present a unified stance on Ukraine’s security. They underscored Ukraine’s importance as a continental issue, not only a national one. After discussions, they voiced cautious optimism that US President Donald Trump may gain momentum in ending Russia’s invasion. Leaders from France, Germany, Finland, Italy, the UK, the European Commission, and NATO met with Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described “real progress” and a “real sense of unity.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that all parties aim to create a “lasting and durable peace.”
Praise, Doubts, and Ceasefire Possibilities
The leaders praised Trump for committing to Ukraine’s security guarantees while suggesting a temporary ceasefire remained possible. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said “the path is open now” to halting the conflict, though future steps remain “complicated.” He admitted his expectations were surpassed, despite initial doubts. Merz called for increased pressure on Russia and encouraged progress toward a ceasefire. Trump stayed cautious, saying, “If we can do the ceasefire, great,” but indicated flexibility. After meeting Putin on Friday, Trump dropped his demand for an immediate ceasefire, pivoting toward securing a final peace settlement — a position closer to Putin’s preference.
Security Guarantees and Next Diplomatic Steps
French President Emmanuel Macron said the most important outcome was the US commitment to work with Europe on Ukraine’s security guarantees. He revealed that participants aim to arrange a bilateral meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy soon, followed by a trilateral session with Trump within weeks. Macron admitted he doubted Putin’s willingness to end the war. Merz stressed that any meeting must be carefully prepared with Zelenskyy’s involvement. He said Europe and the US must determine who provides security guarantees and to what extent, insisting all of Europe must participate. “This is not just about Ukraine’s territory,” he said. “It’s about Europe’s political order.” Asked about possible German peacekeeping troops, Merz said it was too early to decide. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte explained that while membership is not under discussion, leaders are considering “Article 5 kind of security guarantees” for Ukraine. Article 5 of the NATO treaty states an attack on one member equals an attack on all, forming the core of transatlantic defense. US involvement details will be settled in coming days, giving Zelenskyy the clarity he needs to assess whether Ukrainians will remain safe under a peace deal.
