US Vice-President JD Vance and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy led a security meeting near London, bringing together Ukrainian officials and European national security advisers. The session, held at Lammy’s country residence in Kent, was initiated by the US and aimed at coordinating support for Ukraine amid its war with Russia. Lammy reiterated the UK’s firm commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and peace efforts.
Zelensky Rejects Territory Concessions As European Leaders Demand Ukraine’s Inclusion In Peace Talks
Ahead of a planned summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly declared that Ukraine would not surrender any territory to Russia. While Trump hinted that territorial swaps might be necessary for peace, Zelensky insisted that Ukraine’s voice must be central to any negotiations and firmly opposed ceding land.
A coalition of European leaders, including those from Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Finland, and the European Commission, jointly affirmed their support for Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity. They stressed that peace decisions cannot be made without Ukraine’s participation and condemned attempts to redraw borders by force. These statements reinforce the shared European stance against sidelining Ukraine in diplomatic talks.
Trump’s Call For Ukrainian Concessions Clashes With Ukraine’s Firm Stance On Sovereignty
President Trump’s perspective involves Ukraine making concessions, a stance that conflicts with Ukraine’s refusal to compromise on territory. Although Trump and Putin are set to meet in Alaska, Zelensky’s involvement remains uncertain, with planning still underway. Despite Trump’s warning of sanctions against Russia if fighting continued, no immediate consequences followed the deadline, casting doubt on progress.
On the ground, Ukrainians express deep fatigue from ongoing conflict but remain steadfast against peace deals that sacrifice sovereignty. Civilians and soldiers alike want peace but only on terms that include Ukraine’s consent and protect its territorial integrity. The strong insistence by Ukraine and its allies that peace must be inclusive highlights the delicate nature of resolving the conflict.
