European powers reaffirmed their support for Ukraine on Monday following criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who publicly expressed disappointment that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had not reviewed a U.S.-proposed peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

European Leaders Unite in London

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and President Zelensky in London for high-level talks emphasizing continued European backing for Ukraine. Starmer stressed that any ceasefire must be “just and lasting” and reaffirmed that matters affecting Ukraine should be determined by Ukraine itself.

“This principle is fundamental,” Starmer said, highlighting the importance of protecting Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty amid ongoing peace negotiations.

Trump’s Remarks and U.S. Peace Proposal

Trump had criticized Zelensky on Sunday, saying he was “a bit disappointed” that the Ukrainian leader had not yet read the proposed peace plan. Trump claimed that “Russia’s fine with it” and suggested that the proposal had been positively received by some of Zelensky’s advisors, though it was unclear whether he referred to the existing peace proposal or a new plan under development.

Over the previous week, Trump’s envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, met with senior Ukrainian officials, including Maj. Gen. Andriy Hnatov and Rustem Umerov, secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, in Florida to discuss pathways to end the nearly four-year conflict. These talks continued on Saturday, with Ukraine reiterating its commitment to ongoing negotiations.

Ukraine Maintains Firm Stance

During the London meeting, Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine would not cede territory as part of any deal. A French official stated that the discussions between European leaders and Zelensky were aimed at complementing the U.S. peace plan with European contributions, ensuring close coordination with Ukraine.

“This work will help provide Ukraine with robust security guarantees and support preparations for post-war reconstruction,” the official added.

Reactions to the Peace Plan

Earlier, Trump’s team had met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss the 28-point peace plan. The Kremlin reportedly rejected parts of the plan, despite labeling the talks as “constructive and substantive.”

The initial peace proposal has faced criticism from both GOP lawmakers and European leaders, who argue that it favors Russia by curbing Ukraine’s military capabilities and requiring Ukraine to potentially relinquish parts of the Donbas region.

European Commitment to Ukraine

The London meeting underscored Europe’s firm support for Ukraine amid international debates over peace initiatives. Leaders emphasized the need for a coordinated approach with the U.S. while ensuring Ukraine retains sovereignty and control over its territory.

The collaboration between European leaders and Ukraine signals a continued transatlantic commitment to supporting the country politically, economically, and militarily as the conflict with Russia continues.