Hey news lovers! After a big meeting in Washington between U.S., Ukrainian, and EU leaders, Europe's top brass is making it clear: they want a seat at the table when it comes to negotiating Ukraine's future 🕊️.
Last Tuesday, the European Council gathered virtually to debrief on the Washington talks. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, highlighted progress on security guarantees for Ukraine, plans to end the conflict, lift sanctions, and bring back children displaced by the war.
Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, was super clear: Kyiv remains an EU priority 🤝. He stressed that Ukraine's best defense is a strong, well-equipped armed force, and that steps toward Ukraine's EU membership and tripartite negotiations are moving ahead. Costa emphasized that the EU must be part of any peace talks.
On the sanction front, the UK government hinted at even tougher measures to keep pressure on President Putin. Downing Street said the "Coalition of the Willing" agreed to work with the U.S. on security plans and even discuss a reassurance force if hostilities end.
But it's not all smooth sailing. Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico shook things up by stating that Ukraine can't join NATO if there's any hope for peace and that borders might need to be on the table 🔄.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump chimed in from the Fox & Friends couch, saying he's cautiously optimistic. He noted Europe could send troops, but the U.S. would stick to other forms of support.
Even Russia's top diplomat, Sergey Lavrov, didn't rule out direct talks—bilateral or trilateral—on Ukraine. It's a whirlwind of diplomacy, with every player eyeing a path to lasting peace.
As the weeks unfold, all eyes will be on whether this round of talks can finally deliver a roadmap to end one of Europe's biggest crises in decades. Stay tuned! ✌️
Reference(s):
EU leaders stress role in Ukraine peace talks after Washington meeting
cgtn.com
