Europe urges Trump to exercise caution in talks with Putin
The leaders of Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany discussed the situation in Ukraine and efforts toward peace with Donald Trump before his meeting with Vladimir Putin. European leaders are trying to prevent the U.S. president from making a hasty agreement regarding Kyiv.
What do you need to know?
- Consultations before the conversation with Putin: The leaders of Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany spoke with Donald Trump before his planned conversation with the Russian leader.
- Support for Ukraine: Giorgia Meloni emphasized support for Ukraine and the pursuit of a just peace.
- Ceasefire: Chancellor Merz highlighted the need for a ceasefire and peace talks.
What were the main topics of the conversation?
The leaders of Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump on the phone. The conversation focused on the situation in Ukraine and efforts towards a just and lasting peace. It took place before Trump's scheduled conversation with Vladimir Putin.
Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized supporting Ukraine and pursuing an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. The leaders of the United Kingdom, France, and Germany participated in the discussion.
What did the European leaders say?
The spokesperson for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the talks centered on the situation in Ukraine and the catastrophic costs of the war for both sides. In summarizing the consultations on the X platform, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that Putin must agree to a ceasefire and peace talks.
What are the concerns of European leaders?
Politicians from European countries are trying to prevent the U.S. president from hastily reaching an agreement regarding Ukraine. As Bloomberg points out, Trump is pushing for a quick end to Russia's war against Ukraine. He promised this during his election campaign and believes he can reach an agreement in a direct conversation with Putin.
Meanwhile, Putin shows no interest in ending the conflict. Therefore, he is unlikely to offer Trump any significant concessions. As a result, there is a concern in Europe and Kyiv that the American president may still try to push through an agreement.
