Leaders have welcomed a significant advancement in President Trump’s efforts to secure a fair and lasting peace in Ukraine. In a statement released on Monday, it was highlighted that there is strong alignment among the United States, Ukraine, and Europe. The leaders agreed that ensuring the security, sovereignty, and prosperity of Ukraine is integral to the broader Euro-Atlantic security framework. Both U.S. and European leaders committed to cooperating in providing robust security guarantees and economic support for the reconstruction of Ukraine as part of a deal to end the war.
Regarding military structure, it was noted that Ukraine’s armed forces should consist of 800,000 soldiers during peacetime. The statement introduced the concept of a “multinational force,” commanded by European leadership, which would be formed with contributions from willing nations and supported by the U.S. This force aims to assist in rebuilding Ukraine’s military, securing its airspace, and ensuring maritime safety through operations on Ukrainian territory.
European leaders also emphasized their commitment to establishing a monitoring and verification mechanism for ceasefire under U.S. leadership, with contributions from the international community. They indicated a legally binding commitment, subject to national procedures, to take action to restore peace and security in the event of any future military aggression, which could encompass military forces, intelligence and logistical support, and economic and diplomatic actions.
The leaders expressed their support for President Zelensky, agreeing to back any decisions he ultimately makes regarding Ukrainian affairs. They affirmed that international borders should not be altered by force and that territorial decisions belong to the Ukrainian people, once solid security guarantees are effectively implemented. Certain matters will need to be resolved in the final stage of negotiations.
Another focal point of the leaders’ discussion was the necessity for Russia to demonstrate its readiness to move towards a lasting peace by agreeing to President Trump’s peace plan and demonstrating a commitment to ceasefire. The leaders concurred on increasing pressure on Russia to compel Moscow into genuine negotiations.
In a related development, Ukrainian-American peace talks were held in Berlin over the weekend. President Zelensky acknowledged the differing positions with Russia regarding territories, stating the importance of openly discussing these issues. He expressed belief that the U.S. could propose various steps to establish some type of consensus. Discussions are currently in progress regarding security guarantees, and Zelensky emphasized the importance of ensuring both military and civilian clarity on these guarantees before any battlefield actions are undertaken.
This series of diplomatic efforts represents a hopeful step towards stabilizing the situation in Ukraine as leaders across the Atlantic unite in their commitment to support the country on its path towards peace and recovery.