European leaders have confirmed that intensive diplomatic efforts will continue in the coming days to negotiate a US-led peace plan aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war, following a joint phone call with former US President Donald Trump. The call highlighted both cooperation and tension between Europe, the US, and Ukraine as negotiations continue over territorial control and security guarantees.
Key Leaders Involved in Ukraine Peace Talks
The phone call involved:
- UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
- French President Emmanuel Macron
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
- Former US President Donald Trump
The European leaders described the discussion as “critical for Ukraine, its people, and shared security across the Euro-Atlantic region”, emphasizing the urgent need to achieve a just and lasting peace. Trump acknowledged using “strong words” during the discussion, noting that there were “some little disputes about people”.
Progress on the Peace Plan
European officials characterized the negotiations as “inching towards a deal”, though they warned of the complexity involved. Key sticking points include:
- Territorial disputes: Whether Ukraine could or should cede land currently under its control, particularly in the Donetsk and Donbas regions, to reach a settlement.
- Security guarantees: Ensuring that any agreement provides iron-clad protections for Ukraine against future Russian aggression.
- Election conditions: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that elections could occur if security is guaranteed.
Zelensky has submitted a 20-point plan to the US detailing Kyiv’s position on the war and territorial control, following adjustments from earlier 28-point drafts widely leaked to the media last month. The revisions aim to ensure the plan does not disproportionately favour Russia.
European-US Coordination
European governments are urging Washington to respect Ukraine’s decision-making role, maintaining the principle that territorial decisions must be made by Ukraine itself. National Security Advisers from across Europe, including the UK’s Jonathan Powell, are meeting regularly with Ukrainian officials and sharing updates with the US.
If a tentative deal is reached, the US is expected to lead negotiations with Moscow, while European partners continue to support Kyiv diplomatically.
Trump’s Pressure on Kyiv
Former President Trump has urged Ukraine to “play ball” by ceding territory to Moscow, while emphasizing the US desire for a quicker end to the conflict. He has also urged Zelensky to be “realistic” about the situation on the ground, highlighting ongoing military pressure from Russian advances in south-eastern Ukraine.
Zelensky, however, has insisted on a comprehensive ceasefire and strong security guarantees before agreeing to any territorial concessions, reflecting Ukraine’s concerns about future Russian aggression.
Russian Reaction
The Kremlin welcomed Trump’s comments as “very important”, claiming that they align with Moscow’s perspective on NATO membership and territorial disputes. Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated that Ukraine must withdraw troops from the eastern Donbas region or face further military action, rejecting compromises over territorial control.
Despite heavy combat casualties, Russian forces continue their gradual advance in south-eastern Ukraine, increasing the urgency of diplomatic negotiations to prevent further escalation.
The Diplomatic Tightrope
European leaders are walking a delicate balance, trying to support Ukraine while keeping the US engaged in negotiations. The ongoing work aims to prevent a settlement that could leave Kyiv exposed, while ensuring that peace talks are inclusive, fair, and enforceable.
Zelensky’s diplomatic tour across Europe seeks to garner support for Ukraine’s position, while pressuring the US to avoid agreements that compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty.
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