UPDATE: European leaders are pledging unwavering support for Ukraine following urgent talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on September 30, 2023. This commitment comes as pressure mounts on Russia to end its aggressive actions in Ukraine.
In a joint declaration issued shortly after the summit, leaders including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized their readiness to engage in continued dialogue and support for Ukraine. The statement highlighted the need for discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, aiming to facilitate a three-way summit that includes European backing.
Trump’s remarks post-summit raised eyebrows, as he suggested that Ukraine should consider a peace deal directly with Russia, proposing a settlement approach rather than a ceasefire. This stance diverges from the previous positions held by Kyiv and its European allies. Nonetheless, the European leaders reaffirmed their commitment to providing Ukraine with “ironclad” security guarantees, emphasizing that Ukraine must have the autonomy to make decisions regarding its territory.
The leaders’ statement stressed, “International borders must not be changed by force. Our support for Ukraine will continue. We are determined to do more to keep Ukraine strong in order to achieve an end to the fighting and a just and lasting peace.” They reiterated, “As long as the killing in Ukraine continues, we stand ready to uphold the pressure on Russia.” This includes ongoing sanctions and broader economic measures targeting Russia’s war economy.
The development comes at a critical time, as the conflict in Ukraine persists, impacting countless lives and escalating tensions globally. The urgency for a resolution is palpable, with international leaders mobilizing to ensure that Ukraine remains fortified against aggression.
As this situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the upcoming discussions between Trump, Zelenskiy, and European leaders. Will they find common ground to navigate towards a peace agreement? The world watches closely as the stakes increase with each passing day.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
