European leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine’s security following a tense diplomatic standoff between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The show of solidarity came during a high-profile summit in London, where 18 allied nations gathered to discuss the future of European defense and Ukraine’s security.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, hosting the summit, emphasized that Europe faces a defining moment. “This is not a time for more talk.
It’s time to act, to lead, and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace,” Starmer stated. With uncertainty surrounding U.S. support, he urged European nations to take on a greater role in securing stability in Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed Starmer’s sentiments, stressing the need for Europe to “urgently rearm” and prepare for potential threats.
Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for transatlantic unity, warning against any perception that the West might concede to Russian aggression.
French President Emmanuel Macron and Starmer both indicated their willingness to deploy British and French troops to Ukraine if a peace agreement were reached.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte highlighted a growing commitment among European nations to bolster defense spending.
The summit saw Zelensky warmly received by European allies, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and NATO officials. In stark contrast, his recent visit to Washington was marred by a public confrontation with Trump, who accused him of lacking gratitude for U.S. aid and being unprepared for peace negotiations with Russia.
The White House dispute has raised concerns that Trump may push for a settlement favoring Russian President Vladimir Putin, potentially leaving Ukraine in a vulnerable position.
Moscow was quick to respond, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claiming that the shifting U.S. stance aligns with Russia’s interests.
As the London talks unfolded, demonstrators gathered outside Starmer’s office, waving Ukrainian flags and holding signs reading “Putin’s End is Near.”
The summit concluded with the announcement of a £2.26-billion loan agreement between the UK and Ukraine, aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Despite mounting pressure, Zelensky signaled openness to discussions regarding Ukraine’s mineral wealth—a key issue in Trump’s approach to the conflict.
However, European leaders remain resolute in their support, vowing to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, regardless of Washington’s shifting position.