European leaders gathered at the White House and declared Ukraine’s security essential for all of Europe. Leaders from France, Germany, Finland, Italy, the UK, the European Commission, and NATO joined President Trump and President Zelenskyy. They voiced guarded optimism that Trump could advance his pledge to end Russia’s invasion. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke of “real progress” and “real unity.” Ursula von der Leyen stressed joint efforts toward “a lasting and durable peace.”
Praise, Doubts, and Ceasefire Talks
European leaders praised Trump for supporting security guarantees but cautioned about the complexity of a ceasefire. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared “the path is open now” to stopping the fighting, though next steps remain difficult. Merz admitted he doubted this outcome but said his expectations were exceeded. He urged greater pressure on Russia and expressed hope for a ceasefire. Trump remained cautious, saying, “If we can do the ceasefire, great,” but avoided firm commitments. After meeting Putin, Trump abandoned his demand for an immediate ceasefire and shifted toward negotiating a final peace settlement, a move aligned with Putin’s stance.
Plans for Security Guarantees and Talks
French President Emmanuel Macron called US commitment to Ukrainian security the meeting’s “most important” result. He announced plans for a Zelenskyy-Putin meeting within days and a trilateral session with Trump in weeks. Macron admitted he doubted Putin’s willingness to end the war. Merz said Europeans and Americans must agree on who will deliver security guarantees and at what level, insisting “the whole of Europe should participate.” He stressed the issue involves Europe’s political order, not only Ukraine’s territory. Asked about German peacekeepers, Merz said it was too early for decisions. NATO chief Mark Rutte confirmed membership was not discussed but noted that leaders were considering “Article 5 kind of guarantees.” Article 5 requires NATO members to defend each other, forming the alliance’s core. Leaders agreed to refine US involvement details soon, giving Zelenskyy clarity about Ukraine’s future safety under a peace deal.
