- U.S. envoy states Europe will not have a seat at Ukraine peace talks.
- Washington requests European contributions for Ukraine’s security guarantees.
- European leaders strongly reject exclusion from talks on Ukraine’s future.
- Zelenskiy proposes a European army amid security concerns.
- G7 ministers agree to continue working for a durable peace deal for Ukraine.
In a shocking revelation, US envoy to Ukraine, Donald Trump’s representative, confirmed on Saturday that Europe would not be involved in peace negotiations regarding Ukraine. This announcement follows a series of actions by Washington, including sending a questionnaire to European capitals. The US seeks to determine how Europe can contribute to security guarantees for Kyiv amidst the ongoing war with Russia.
Trump’s administration has taken an increasingly isolationist approach, with shifting priorities. These include a greater focus on domestic issues like border security and countering China. Consequently, Europe’s role in handling the Ukraine conflict appears diminished, with the US expecting NATO’s European members to take responsibility for the region’s security.
European Leaders Push Back on Exclusion
The exclusion of Europe from Ukraine peace talks has sparked anger among European leaders. Finnish President Alexander Stubb stressed that Europe can’t afford to be left out of discussions about Ukraine’s future and security. He emphasized Europe’s need to play a role in shaping the region’s future.
Stubb said, “There’s no way in which we can have discussions or negotiations about Ukraine, Ukraine’s future, or European security structure, without Europeans.” His words reflect the frustration shared by many across the continent.
European leaders believe that European nations must have a central role in these talks. They fear that excluding them could lead to decisions that harm their security interests and stability.
US Focuses on Its Role as Intermediary
Despite Europe’s objections, the US stays firm in its position. US envoy Kellogg spoke at the Munich Security Conference, saying the US would be the main mediator between Ukraine and Russia. The two countries would remain the primary participants in the peace process.
Kellogg responded, “I’m from a school of realism. I think that’s not gonna happen,” when asked about European involvement. He made it clear that Europe’s role would be minimal.
Kellogg acknowledged Europe’s interests but reassured the audience that the US would still consider them. He emphasized that the US would focus on a peace deal that aligns with its priorities, with less involvement from European powers.
US Requests European Military Support
In a move that further alienates Europe, the US has sent a detailed questionnaire to European capitals, seeking their willingness to contribute to Ukraine’s security. One key question in the document specifically asks EU member states about their readiness to deploy troops to assist Ukraine.
A European diplomat revealed that the US document included six questions, including one that directly addressed the number of soldiers European countries could commit. The shift toward greater European involvement in the military aspect of Ukraine’s defense highlights the US retreat from its previous dominant role in the region.
Zelenskyy Calls for a European Army
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy raised concerns about Europe’s security in a recent speech. He proposed creating a European army to address the changing geopolitical landscape. According to Zelenskyy, Europe cannot depend on the US for its defense and must take action to ensure its security.
“Europe’s future depends on Europeans, and decisions about Europeans should be made in Europe,” Zelenskyy said. He argued that a unified European military force would lessen the continent’s reliance on outside powers, especially the US
Zelenskyy’s proposal sparked a debate across Europe. Some officials, particularly from Eastern EU states, remain skeptical. One official argued, “There is a European military force called NATO.” This shows the divide over whether a separate European army is needed, given the existing NATO cooperation.
Despite differing views, Zelenskyy’s call highlights the urgent need for a European defense force. The global security landscape is shifting, and Europe must act quickly. This proposal emphasizes the growing importance of Europe securing its future independently.
Amid rising tensions, the G7 foreign ministers reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine. They promised to continue offering security guarantees, despite the uncertainty around Europe’s role in peace talks. The US and its European allies remain united in supporting Ukraine’s future.