Leading Up to Alaska Summit: Securing European Interests for Safety and Security
In the lead-up to the scheduled Alaska summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Europe and Ukraine have outlined their key demands to ensure a durable peace and preserve the sovereignty of Ukraine.
The principle that borders may not be changed by force must continue to apply, as emphasised by various European leaders. The ceasefire is a crucial requirement for any negotiations, according to CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who has conveyed this message to Trump.
Ukraine is ready for negotiations on territorial questions, but the contact line (the front line) must be the starting point, and the legal recognition of Russian occupations is not up for debate. This stance was reiterated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who stated that any questions concerning the territorial integrity of Ukraine cannot be discussed without taking into account the will of the state, the people, and the constitution of Ukraine.
Europe and Ukraine demand no territorial compromises that reward Russian aggression. They seek a durable peace backed by robust security guarantees. The USA and Europe may increase pressure on Russia if there is no progress in the Alaska summit.
European leaders are trying to ensure that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests are preserved during the summit. They urge defining clear security guarantees for Ukraine via a “Coalition of the Willing,” which would involve European countries like Germany, France, and the UK committing to deploy troops and support Ukraine's defense without direct U.S. ground forces, while relying on U.S. intelligence, logistics, and a backstop.
Simultaneously, European leaders emphasize the need for a strong and united front with the U.S. to maintain pressure on Russia through sanctions and diplomacy. They fear that Trump and Putin could agree on territorial concessions by Ukraine to Russia, which Kyiv strictly rejects.
In recent weeks, Russian troops have advanced in eastern Ukraine, resulting in a record number of civilian casualties in July. Almost 40% of the casualties in Ukraine are attributed to Russian drone and missile strikes on targets in Ukraine's hinterland, including major cities like Kyiv, Dnipro, and Kharkiv. The UN recorded 286 civilian deaths and 1,388 injuries in Ukraine in July, the highest figure since May 2022, and a 22.5% increase compared to the same month last year.
Russia aims to discuss bilateral issues in Alaska, including the Ukraine conflict and obstacles hindering a normal dialogue between the two countries. However, these discussions must adhere to the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Merz expressed hope for progress and peace in Ukraine during the summit. As a sign of support for Ukraine, Merz invited Zelenskyy to a telephone conference with Trump in Berlin. Europe, the USA, and NATO have strengthened their common basis, according to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
These demands frame the broader negotiation context at the summit and reflect a shared commitment to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and defense against Russia’s ongoing war. Europe and Ukraine stand resolute in their pursuit of a peaceful resolution that respects their territorial integrity.
What are the key demands of Europe and Ukraine in the Alaska summit between President Trump and President Putin? They seek a durable peace backed by robust security guarantees, with no territorial compromises rewarding Russian aggression.
In discussions on the Ukraine conflict and other bilateral issues, a strong commitment to respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity is crucial, as highlighting the general news of late.
