Zelenskyy advocates for unequivocal security assurances from European allies
In a virtual meeting held in Poland, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine met with leaders from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland, Finland, as well as the presidents of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Denmark. The gathering was prompted by a recent deadly Russian attack on Kyiv that claimed 22 lives.
The meeting aimed to increase pressure on Russia ahead of diplomatic talks and to discuss how European leaders can take part in defending Ukraine. President Zelenskyy emphasised the importance of demonstrating unity to U.S. President Donald Trump, who has advocated for direct talks between Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
During the meeting, Zelenskyy stressed the need for unity among European leaders in their approach to Russia. He also underlined that the Kremlin, led by Putin, remains focused on continuing the war. The Kremlin, however, stated on Thursday that it was still interested in peace talks over Ukraine.
Zelenskyy asked European leaders to define their role in helping Ukraine defend itself on the ground, in the air, and at sea if Russia attacks again. He also emphasised the importance of establishing concrete security guarantees for Ukraine. The leaders expressed their intentions to increase pressure on Russia in this regard.
The Kremlin mentioned that both sides were continuing military strikes, but Russia remains committed to diplomacy. Trump has threatened additional sanctions if progress is not made in resolving the conflict.
In a separate virtual meeting with Polish President Karol Nawrocki and the leaders of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Denmark, Zelenskyy stated that the meeting helped "synchronise" European positions to increase pressure on Russia ahead of diplomatic talks.
Senior Ukrainian officials are scheduled to meet with Trump administration representatives in New York on Friday. The discussions are expected to continue as the international community seeks a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
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