KABUL: European leaders have reiterated their support for Ukraine following Kyiv’s response to U.S. proposals regarding the cession of certain territories to Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that decisions about Ukraine’s future cannot be made without the Ukrainians. Reports suggest that alongside the U.S. proposal for a ceasefire, European leaders have presented an alternative plan. In a joint statement, leaders from France, Britain, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Finland stated, “We believe that only a strategy involving active diplomacy, support for Ukraine, and pressure on the Russian Federation to end their illegal war can be successful.” The statement further noted the need for “strong and reliable security guarantees” to enable Ukraine to effectively defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, also signed the statement, affirming that “Ukraine has the freedom to determine its own destiny.” This declaration comes as U.S. and Russian presidents are set to meet in Alaska next Friday to discuss ending the conflict in Ukraine. This will mark the first direct meeting between the two leaders in the past four years. According to NBC News, citing a senior U.S. official and three other informed sources, the White House is considering inviting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the Alaska meeting. However, Reuters later reported, citing another White House official, that while Trump is prepared for a trilateral meeting in Alaska, current plans are solely for discussions between Trump and Putin as requested by the Russian leader. Although Zelensky has expressed willingness for direct talks with Putin, the Russian president has thus far declined such a meeting.
