European leaders to join Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for White House meeting with Trump
chicagotribune.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 10:26:47 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights, Foreign Policy & International Relations
KYIV, Ukraine -- European and NATO leaders announced Sunday they will join President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington for talks with President Donald Trump about ending Russia's war in Ukraine. They are rallying around the Ukrainian leader after his exclusion from Trump's summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The remarkable show of solidarity -- with leaders from France, Britain and Germany saying they would be at Zelenskyy's side at the White House on Monday -- was an apparent effort to ensure the meeting goes better than the last one in February, when Trump berated Zelenskyy in a heated Oval Office encounter.
"The Europeans are very afraid of the Oval Office scene being repeated and so they want to support Mr. Zelenskyy to the hilt," said retired French Gen. Dominique Trinquand, a former head of France's military mission at the United Nations.
"It's a power struggle and a position of strength that might work with Trump," he said.
The European leaders' physical presence to demonstrate their support for Ukraine could potentially help ease concerns in Kyiv and in other European capitals that Ukraine risks being railroaded into a peace deal that Trump says he wants to broker with Russia.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on X that she will take part in the talks, "at the request" of Zelenskyy. The secretary-general of the NATO military alliance, Mark Rutte, will also take part in the meeting, his press service said.
The office of President Emmanuel Macron said the French leader will travel "at the side of President Zelenskyy" and that he, too, would visit the White House. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will also take part in the meeting with Trump, according to a statement from 10 Downing Street.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will also be part of the European group. Writing on X, he said he would discuss security guarantees, territorial issues, and further support for Ukraine.
The grouped trip underscored European leaders' determination to ensure that Europe has a voice in Trump's attempted peace-making, after the U.S. president's summit on Friday with Putin -- to which Zelenskyy wasn't invited.
Neil Melvin, director of international security at the London-based Royal United Services Institute, said European leaders are trying to "shape this fast-evolving agenda." After the Alaska summit, the idea of a ceasefire appears all-but-abandoned, with the narrative shifting towards Putin's agenda of ensuring Ukraine does not join NATO or even the EU.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday that a possible ceasefore is "not off the table" but that the best way to end the war would be through a "full peace deal."
Putin has implied that he sees Europe as a hindrance to negotiations. He has also resisted meeting Zelenskyy in person, saying that such a meeting can only take place once the groundwork for a peace deal has been laid.
Speaking to the press after his meeting with Trump, the Russian leader raised the idea that Kyiv and other European capitals could "create obstacles" to derail potential progress with "behind-the-scenes intrigue."
For now, Zelenskyy offers the Europeans the "only way" to get into the discussions about the future of Ukraine and European security, says RUSI's Melvin.
However, the sheer number of European leaders potentially in attendance means the group will have to be "mindful" not to give "contradictory" messages, Melvin said.
"The risk is they look heavy-handed and are ganging up on Trump," he added. "Trump won't want to be put in a corner."
Leicester reported from Le Pecq, France. Associated Press writers Pan Pylas in London, and Katie Marie Davies in Manchester, England, contributed to this report.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent gathering of European leaders alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington, D.C., highlights a pivotal moment in international relations, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This meeting, catalyzed by President Donald Trump's complicated and often capricious approach to foreign policy, underscores the necessity of strategic unity among European nations in confronting Russian aggression. Historically, the struggle for Ukrainian sovereignty has been shaped by the geopolitical maneuvers of larger powers, and this latest summit reflects both the urgency of the present situation and the lessons of the past.
The exclusion of President Zelenskyy from Trump's earlier meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin echoes a historical pattern wherein powerful nations often exclude smaller states from crucial negotiations affecting their futures. This dynamic is reminiscent of the Yalta Conference in 1945, where leaders of the Allied powers made significant decisions about post-war Europe without meaningful input from the nations that would be directly impacted. Such practices not only undermine the sovereignty of nations like Ukraine but also perpetuate a cycle of dependency and vulnerability. The European leaders' joint presence in Washington is a counter-response to this historical precedent, signaling a commitment to ensure that Ukraine's voice is not silenced in discussions that could dictate its fate.
The ongoing war in Ukraine is not merely a regional conflict; it is a manifestation of larger global struggles, including the fight against authoritarianism and the pursuit of self-determination. The actions of Russian President Vladimir Putin, marked by aggressive territorial expansion, are a direct challenge to the post-World War II order that sought to establish norms around national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The European leaders attending the meeting with Zelenskyy aim to reaffirm their stance against such violations while also pushing back against Trump's inclination to negotiate from a position of transactional pragmatism rather than principled diplomacy. This meeting serves as a crucial moment for Europe to assert its collective will against the backdrop of an unstable international landscape.
Furthermore, the discussions around security guarantees and territorial integrity reflect a growing recognition among European leaders that their security is inextricably linked to Ukraine's stability. The NATO alliance has historically served as a bulwark against external aggression, and the current situation emphasizes the need for a robust collective defense strategy that includes not only military support but also long-term economic and political commitments. The specter of a ceasefire, as mentioned by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, raises questions about the terms under which such a halt to hostilities would be acceptable. Any peace deal must prioritize the rights and autonomy of the Ukrainian people, rather than merely appeasing an aggressor.
Lastly, the evolving narrative and strategies surrounding this conflict compel a deeper examination of how such geopolitical struggles impact marginalized communities within Ukraine and beyond. The war has exacerbated existing social inequalities, leading to displacement and suffering for many civilians. The international community has a responsibility to ensure that humanitarian assistance is not only provided but is also accompanied by efforts to address the underlying social injustices exacerbated by the conflict. This includes advocating for the rights of those displaced, supporting local economies, and fostering inclusive dialogues that prioritize the voices of the most affected populations.
In conclusion, the upcoming meeting between European leaders and President Zelenskyy is a critical moment that encapsulates broader historical and political themes. It serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity in the face of aggression, the need for principled diplomacy, and the ongoing struggle for justice within and beyond Ukraine. As discussions unfold, it is essential for advocates of social justice to emphasize the interconnectedness of these issues, and to hold leaders accountable for ensuring that the solutions proposed do not compromise the rights and dignity of those most affected by this conflict.
The recent announcement of European leaders joining Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for talks with President Donald Trump underscores a critical moment in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This gathering emphasizes the stakes involved not only for Ukraine, but for Europe and the broader geopolitical landscape. The presence of leaders from France, Britain, Germany, and NATO signifies a united front, reflecting the fears of European nations regarding Trump's approach to diplomacy with Russia. Historical context is crucial here; understanding the roots of this conflict can empower us to engage in meaningful discussions about U.S. foreign policy and the stakes involved in international diplomacy.
Historically, Russia's aggressive maneuvers in Ukraine can be traced back to a mix of imperial ambitions and security concerns. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine have highlighted the precarious balance of power in the region. In this context, the U.S. has played a significant role, often positioning itself as a defender of democracy and sovereignty. However, Trump's erratic foreign policy approach raises questions about the reliability of the U.S. as an ally, particularly when he has appeared more willing to appease Putin than support allies. The exclusion of Zelenskyy from Trump's previous summit with Putin is indicative of a troubling trend where American leadership appears inconsistent, favoring personal diplomacy over established alliances and international norms.
As concerned citizens and advocates for a more principled foreign policy, it is vital to engage in dialogue that emphasizes the importance of international cooperation. The solidarity shown by European leaders is commendable but also highlights the need for a strong American presence in global diplomacy. We can draw attention to the idea that U.S. leadership is essential not just for Ukraine's sovereignty, but for maintaining stability in Europe and countering authoritarianism. Engaging with right-wing proponents requires us to stress the historical lessons learned from appeasement and isolationism, emphasizing that a strong and principled foreign policy fosters long-term peace and security.
Moreover, we must advocate for a shift in U.S. foreign policy that prioritizes human rights and democratic values over mere transactional dealings. The current geopolitical landscape demands a nuanced understanding of the motivations behind Russia's aggression, as well as a commitment to upholding the sovereignty of nations like Ukraine. By emphasizing the need for comprehensive security guarantees for Ukraine, we can articulate a vision that aligns with both national interests and moral imperatives. This is an opportunity to challenge narratives that suggest a "peace at any cost" mentality, urging instead for strategies that foster genuine stability and respect for international law.
Finally, grassroots action and public discourse play a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy. We can take meaningful steps by organizing forums, writing to representatives, and utilizing social media platforms to promote awareness of this issue. Engaging in conversations that highlight the interconnectedness of global stability, democratic integrity, and human rights can provide a compelling counter-narrative to isolationist tendencies. As we advocate for a more principled U.S. role in international affairs, we can empower individuals to demand accountability and a commitment to supporting allies like Ukraine in their fight for sovereignty and self-determination. Through collective action, we can help ensure that our leaders prioritize diplomacy rooted in values that resonate with the wider aspirations for peace and justice, ultimately countering the authoritarian tendencies that threaten democratic institutions worldwide.
In light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict and the recent high-profile meeting between European leaders and President Zelenskyy, there are several constructive actions that individuals can take to support Ukraine and advocate for a resolution that prioritizes human rights, democracy, and international solidarity. Here’s a detailed list of actions that can make a meaningful difference:
### 1. **Advocate for Supportive Legislation** - **Action**: Contact your local congressional representatives to express support for legislation that aids Ukraine in its ongoing conflict. - **Who to Write to**: - Find your local representative using [House.gov](https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative). - **What to Say**: Advocate for increased military support, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic efforts to ensure Ukraine's sovereignty. Sample message: "I urge you to support legislation that strengthens Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against aggression and promotes a peaceful resolution that respects its territorial integrity."
### 2. **Engage with Petitions** - **Action**: Sign and share online petitions that call for actions supporting Ukraine. - **Examples of Petitions**: - **Petition for Increased Military Aid to Ukraine** on Change.org. - **Petition for Humanitarian Aid** on Care2 Petitions. - **What to Say**: When signing, add a comment about why you believe support for Ukraine is critical for democracy in Europe.
### 3. **Contacting the European Union** - **Action**: Write to EU representatives urging stronger actions against Russia's aggression. - **Who to Write to**: - **Ursula von der Leyen**, President of the European Commission - Email: contact@ec.europa.eu - Mailing Address: European Commission, Rue de la Loi 200, 1049 Brussels, Belgium. - **What to Say**: "As a concerned global citizen, I urge you to advocate for comprehensive support for Ukraine and to ensure that diplomatic negotiations prioritize Ukraine's sovereignty and security."
### 4. **Support Local Ukrainian Communities** - **Action**: Get involved with local organizations that support Ukrainian refugees and communities. - **How to Help**: Volunteer your time, donate goods, or raise funds for organizations like: - International Rescue Committee (IRC) - [IRC.org](https://www.rescue.org/) - Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA) - [unwla.org](https://unwla.org/) - **What to Say**: When reaching out, express your willingness to assist with specific needs or projects.
### 5. **Educate and Raise Awareness** - **Action**: Share information about the conflict and its implications through social media and community events. - **How to Do It**: Organize or participate in local forums, discussions, or workshops that focus on the Ukraine crisis and broader geopolitical issues. - **What to Say**: Encourage discussions that include historical context, the importance of solidarity with Ukraine, and the potential consequences of inaction.
### 6. **Support Charitable Organizations** - **Action**: Donate to organizations that provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine. - **Examples**: - Direct Relief: [directrelief.org](https://www.directrelief.org/) - Razom for Ukraine: [razomforukraine.org](https://razomforukraine.org/) - **What to Say**: When donating, include a message specifying that your contribution is intended to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.
### 7. **Engage in Political Activism** - **Action**: Join or support political movements that advocate for peace and justice in Ukraine. - **Examples**: Participate in local rallies, join advocacy groups or coalitions that push for effective foreign policy regarding Ukraine. - **What to Say**: Use your voice to call for policies that prioritize human rights and democracy in international relations.
By taking these steps, individuals can contribute to a broader movement advocating for support for Ukraine, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard in the corridors of power, and that there is a continued push for peace, stability, and democracy in the region.