Trump-Putin Call On Ukraine Ceasefire: European Leaders Express Mixed Reaction On Credibility Of Ceasefire Agreement

European countries have mixed reactions to the phone call between US President Trump and Russian President Putin, where they discussed steps to end the three-year Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The White House stated that the leaders agreed on the need for lasting peace in Ukraine and outlined initial steps, including a ceasefire in energy and infrastructure sectors and maritime talks in the Black Sea.

Key Highlights From Trump-Putin Conversation

The Kremlin’s version of the conversation focused on Russia’s demands for a 30-day ceasefire proposed by Trump.

Russian President Putin emphasized that halting foreign military aid and intelligence sharing for Ukraine was crucial to prevent further escalation and to facilitate a political and diplomatic settlement.

Immediately following the call, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced his country’s support for any proposals that would lead to a just and lasting peace.

However, he made it clear that Ukraine’s direct involvement in the peace talks was essential.

Zelensky stated, “I believe reaching an agreement is futile without Ukraine’s involvement.”

European Leaders Express Support For Ukraine’s Role In Talks

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa issued a joint statement calling for a ‘just and lasting peace’ for Ukraine.

They expressed hope that the Trump-Putin conversation was a step forward and reaffirmed their strong support for Ukraine.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Berlin, welcoming the Trump-Putin call.

They stressed the need to fully involve Ukraine in peace talks and asserted that no one should make decisions about its future without its participation.

While some European leaders voiced support, others adopted a more cautious stance.

Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar said that the call demonstrated the need for continued communication and sustainable solutions to prevent similar conflicts in the future.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto also lauded the call, stating, “The US and Russian presidents have taken another big step toward peace, and we hope Brussels will not be able to prevent a peace agreement.”

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares expressed skepticism about the immediate prospects for peace. He also acknowledged that while discussions of a ceasefire were positive, the situation remained far from resolution. “We’re still very far from the peace that Spain and the European people want,” Albares said.

Calls For European Involvement In Peace Talks

As the Ukraine crisis continues, European leaders increasingly fear losing their role in the peace process.

Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro emphasized that any peace process must involve Ukraine and the European Union.

“There is broad consensus within the European Union that any peace process for Ukraine and this conflict must involve Ukraine itself and the EU,” Montenegro said.

French government spokesperson Sophie Primas also stressed that a lasting peace could not be achieved without the inclusion of both Ukrainian and European representatives.

“As long as the Ukrainians and the Europeans are not involved in the discussions, this call cannot result in an agreement,” Primas stated.

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