In discussions about Ukraine, Trump characterizes European leaders as 'outstanding individuals' - Trump praises European leaders prior to discussions on Ukraine matters
On Wednesday, a series of video conferences are scheduled to take place, with the focus on the ongoing Ukraine war. The discussions will involve key global figures, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President António Costa, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and US Vice President JD Vance.
The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, is expected to be physically present at the German Chancellery for these meetings. This gathering comes after recent talks at the White House involving Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Donald Trump, and European leaders, including Friedrich Merz. The primary objective of these discussions was to present a united front on Ukraine amid the ongoing war, emphasizing the need for compromise.
The meetings aim to coordinate Western efforts in supporting Ukraine while seeking a diplomatic resolution to the war. The involvement of European leaders like Merz underscores the importance of a transatlantic alliance in addressing the crisis. These discussions could influence future negotiations between the US, Ukraine, and Russia by fostering a coordinated approach that balances military, political, and economic pressures.
The meetings are also intended to strengthen the position of Europe before the summit meeting of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin on Friday in Alaska. The EU aims to have a unified stance before this summit. A "Coalition of the Willing" conference is scheduled to take place, hosted by Germany, the UK, and France, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also in attendance.
In addition, Trump and US Vice President JD Vance are scheduled to hold a phone call with European allies and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at 15:00. Friedrich Merz invited the video conferences for Wednesday due to concerns that the two presidents might make decisions without consulting Ukraine and its Western allies.
Friedrich Merz will address the press alongside Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin in the afternoon, following the video conferences. The meetings are being organised by the German Government. The engagement signals an intent to align US and European strategies more closely with Ukraine’s position while preparing for potential compromises that could de-escalate the conflict and reshape the US-Ukraine-Russia relationship.
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