Sidelined Europe Seeks Ukraine Role After Trump-Putin Call

As the United States and Russia engage in direct talks to end the Ukraine conflict, European countries are pushing to be included in the negotiations, fearing they may be sidelined in a critical process that directly affects their security and economic interests. The Trump administration's decision to initiate discussions with Russia without involving European allies has raised concerns about the future of transatlantic relations and the stability of the European continent.



The exclusion of European countries from the initial peace negotiations has sparked a backlash among European leaders, who argue that their interests and those of Ukraine must be taken into account. In a joint statement, the Weimar+ group of European countries, including France, Germany, Poland, Italy, Spain, the UK, the European External Action Service, and the European Commission, emphasized the need for European involvement in the peace process. "Ukraine and Europe must be part of any negotiations," the statement read, stressing that a "just and lasting peace in Ukraine is a necessary condition for a strong transatlantic security."

European countries have been instrumental in supporting Ukraine, providing about 60% of the military support to Kyiv last year. Their significant investment in Ukraine's defense and economic recovery makes it crucial for them to have a say in shaping the peace deal. Moreover, Europe's direct stake in the security and stability of the region underscores the importance of its involvement in the negotiations.

However, the US-Russia negotiations have already begun, which may limit Europe's ability to influence the outcome. The US and Russia may have already agreed on certain terms, potentially reducing Europe's leverage in the process. Additionally, divided interests among European countries could make it difficult for them to present a united front in the negotiations, weakening their position.

To effectively advocate for its interests and those of Ukraine, Europe should prioritize the following goals:

1. Inclusive negotiations: Europe must insist on being part of the negotiations, pushing for a format that includes Ukraine, the US, Russia, and key European countries.
2. Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity: Europe should prioritize the restoration of Ukraine's internationally recognized borders, supporting Ukraine's right to self-defense and its territorial integrity.
3. Security guarantees: Europe should advocate for strong security guarantees for Ukraine, such as a UN-mandated peacekeeping mission, legally binding agreements, and enhanced military and economic support.
4. NATO and European security: Europe should emphasize the importance of NATO's role in European security and the need for a strong transatlantic partnership, supporting Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic aspirations.
5. Economic recovery and reconstruction: Europe should prioritize the economic recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine, addressing the humanitarian crisis and supporting the return of internally displaced persons and refugees.
6. Long-term strategic partnership: Europe should aim to strengthen its strategic partnership with Ukraine, supporting its democratic development, economic reforms, and integration with European institutions.

By pursuing these goals and maintaining a united front, Europe can effectively advocate for its interests and those of Ukraine in the face of US-Russia dialogue. Europe should also work closely with Ukraine to ensure that its voice is heard and that its interests are taken into account in any peace negotiations.

As the peace process unfolds, European countries must remain vigilant and engaged, ensuring that their concerns and those of Ukraine are addressed. The future of European security and economic prosperity may hinge on the outcome of these negotiations, making it essential for Europe to play an active role in shaping the peace deal.