BRUSSELS — European Union leaders reiterated on Thursday the principle that any discussions regarding the future of Ukraine must include the country itself and take place transparently with its European partners. This statement comes just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine that has persisted for over 1,000 days.
The situation in Ukraine remains dire as Russia continues its advance, extending its front lines westward in spite of significant losses. The war has severely damaged Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, and the recruitment of new military personnel is becoming increasingly challenging. During a summit in Brussels, EU leaders gathered with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasizing that any deliberations about Ukraine or European security must involve Ukrainian voices.
“Only Ukraine, as the nation under aggression, can legitimately define the terms of peace and determine when credible negotiations can occur,” remarked António Costa, the European Council president at the conclusion of the lengthy meeting. He stressed the urgency of supporting Ukraine’s position, stating that it’s crucial to enhance Ukraine’s capabilities to navigate potential future scenarios rather than engaging in speculative discussions.
As Trump prepares to re-enter the White House, he has promised rapid resolutions to the war and has openly praised his prior relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, prompting concern among European leaders regarding the potential for unfavorable agreements that might harm Ukraine’s interests. The fear is that Putin could take advantage of the transition period to regroup and intensify military actions.
Speculation regarding potential peace negotiations in early 2025 is circulating, alongside the possibility of European peacekeepers being deployed, but EU leaders are careful to avoid revealing their plans to avoid giving away strategic insights to Russia. The collective focus, they assert, must be on empowering Ukraine for any forthcoming negotiations.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of providing long-term support to Ukraine, ensuring that assistance will be available as long as necessary, particularly in the realm of air defense, artillery, and ammunition supplies. Regarding Trump, Scholz expressed optimism based on their discussions, affirming that collaboration between Europe and the U.S. is achievable without compromising Ukraine’s interests.
Similarly, Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden echoed the sentiment, stating, “We need to support Ukraine, and every action must be coordinated with Ukraine and conducted within the framework of the European Union. The decisions about Ukraine’s future are made in Europe, not elsewhere.” Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof added that it’s for Ukraine alone to dictate the terms for discussions, reiterating that there has been no indication yet that Ukraine is ready to hold such talks.
Zelenskyy, emphasizing the necessity for continued unity between the EU and the U.S. in the upcoming year, stated, “Only through solidarity can the United States and Europe foil Putin’s ambitions and safeguard Ukraine.” He also remarked that NATO membership remains the most reliable security assurance for his nation.
In a statement shared on his website, Zelenskyy acknowledged France’s push for a military contingent in Ukraine as part of assurance efforts and encouraged other partners to contribute to these initiatives to expedite the end of the conflict.
The future actions of Trump remain unclear, and speculations arise recalling his previous presidency when the U.S. negotiated a withdrawal from Afghanistan directly with the Taliban while overlooking the Afghan government, leading to a disorderly exit in 2021 that embarrassed Washington and its NATO allies.
Over the course of the war, the EU has granted Ukraine substantial support, amounting to over 180 billion euros since Russia’s full-scale invasion began, paralleling U.S. aid. However, while the EU as a major trading bloc may be equipped to sustain Ukraine’s devastated economy, its capacity to deliver the required military assistance for Ukraine to achieve a decisive victory remains questionable.
