The European Union (EU) member states, except Hungary, issued a strong, joint statement insisting that “Ukrainians must have the freedom to decide their own future.”
They emphasized that “meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities,” and affirmed that “a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine’s and Europe’s vital security interests.”
Their declaration comes just before a scheduled meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. President Donald Trump, followed by a Trump, Putin summit in Alaska.
EU and Kyiv leaders are closely watching, concerned that Washington, long Ukraine’s main arms supplier, may impose unfavorable peace terms.
Meanwhile, Russia has intensified efforts in eastern Ukraine, pushing north by up to 10 km near Dobropillia toward Pokrovsk, according to Ukraine’s DeepState war map. A Ukrainian ex-officer on X noted this follows a “playbook” from 2014–15 when Russia launched offensives ahead of negotiations.
He added, “The current situation is serious, but far from the collapse some suggest.” Kyiv’s military also announced it had retaken two villages in Sumy, reversing some of the protracted Russian gains in the southeast.
EU leaders stressed that “a Ukraine capable of defending itself effectively is an integral part of any future security guarantees,” and declared their readiness to bolster such aid. Zelenskiy, responding on X, welcomed the statement and warned that “Russia was preparing new offensive operations.”
He affirmed that “we all support President Trump’s determination,” but insisted on shaping terms that would prevent Russia from “deceiving the world once again.”
