EU Politicians Issue Joint Appeal Before Putin–Trump Meeting
On the night of August 10, leading European politicians issued a joint statement addressed to the presidents of the United States and Russia ahead of the planned meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.
The Gaze reports on it, referring to the statement on an official website of the European Union.
President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Tusk, Prime Minister Starmer, President von der Leyen, and President Stubb welcomed President Trump's efforts to end the Russian Federation's aggressive war and achieve a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.
The leaders of these European countries emphasized that success is only possible through a combination of active diplomacy, support for Ukraine, and pressure on Russia to end the war. They also declared their readiness to continue military, financial, and sanctions support for Kyiv, in particular through the work of the Coalition of the Willing, as well as through the introduction of restrictive measures against the Russian Federation.
European leaders have identified the vital security interests of Ukraine and Europe, which include reliable security guarantees for Ukraine, respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the impossibility of making decisions without its participation.
Furthermore, the statement noted that substantive negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or a reduction in military action.
“The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine. We remain committed to the principle that international borders must not be changed by force,” the statement said, emphasizing that the existing line of confrontation has to be the starting point for negotiations.
European policy-makers reiterated that Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is a gross violation of international law, including the UN Charter, the Helsinki Final Act, the Budapest Memorandum, and Russia's own commitments.
They declared the unity of European states in supporting Ukraine and their readiness to cooperate with the US and Ukrainian leadership for peace that guarantees security.
“We continue to stand firmly by the side of Ukraine. We are united as Europeans and determined to jointly promote our interests. And we will continue to cooperate closely with President Trump and with the United States of America, and with President Zelenskyy and the people of Ukraine, for a peace in Ukraine that protects our vital security interests,” wrote the European leaders.
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