European leaders to join Ukraine's Zelenskyy for meeting with Trump - WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports | Fort Lauderdale
wsvn.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 4:20:57 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–NATO Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S.–Russia Relations

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) -- European and NATO leaders announced Sunday they will join President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington to present a united front in talks with President Donald Trump on ending Russia's war in Ukraine and firming up U.S. security guarantees now on the negotiating table.
Leaders from Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Finland are rallying around the Ukrainian president after his exclusion from Trump's summit on Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Their pledge to be at Zelenskyy's side at the White House on Monday is 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.
Putin agreed at his summit in Alaska with Trump that the U.S. and its European allies could offer Ukraine a security guarantee resembling NATO's collective defense mandate as part of an eventual deal to end the 3 1/2-year war, special U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said in an interview Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union."
It "was the first time we had ever heard the Russians agree to that," said Witkoff, who called it "game-changing."
Later, French President Emmanuel Macron said the European delegation will ask Trump to back plans they drafted to beef-up Ukraine's armed forces -- already Europe's largest outside of Russia -- with more training and equipment to secure any peace.
"We need a credible format for the Ukrainian army, that's the first point, and say -- we Europeans and Americans -- how we'll train them, equip them, and finance this effort in the long-term," the French leader said.
The European-drafted plans also envision an allied force in Ukraine away from the front lines to reassure Kyiv that peace will hold and to dissuade another Russian invasion, Macron said. He spoke after a nearly two-hour video call Sunday with nations in Europe and further afield -- including Canada, Australia and Japan -- that are involved in the so-called "coalition of the willing."
The "several thousand men on the ground in Ukraine in the zone of peace" would signal that "our fates are linked," Macron said.
"This is what we must discuss with the Americans: Who is ready to do what?" Macron said. "Otherwise, I think the Ukrainians simply cannot accept commitments that are theoretical."
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said earlier at a news conference in Brussels with Zelenskyy that "we welcome President Trump's willingness to contribute to Article 5-like security guarantees for Ukraine. And the 'coalition of the willing' -- including the European Union -- is ready to do its share."
Macron said the substance of security guarantees will be more important than whether they are given an Article 5-type label.
"A theoretical article isn't enough, the question is one of substance," he said. "We must start out by saying that the first of the security guarantees for Ukraine is a strong Ukrainian army."
Along with Von der Leyen and Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and Finnish President Alexander Stubb also said they'll will take part in Monday's talks, as will secretary-general of the NATO military alliance, Mark Rutte.
The European leaders' support could help ease concerns in Kyiv and in other European capitals that Ukraine risks being railroaded into a peace deal.
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 toward 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 ceasefire 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."
Although details remain hazy on what Article 5-like security guarantees from the U.S. and Europe would entail for Ukraine, it could mirror NATO membership terms, in which an attack on one member of the alliance is seen as an attack on all.
Zelenskyy continues to stress the importance of both U.S. and European involvement in any negotiations.
"A security guarantee is a strong army. Only Ukraine can provide that. Only Europe can finance this army, and weapons for this army can be provided by our domestic production and European production. But there are certain things that are in short supply and are only available in the United States," he said at the press conference Sunday alongside Von der Leyen.
Zelenskyy also pushed back against Trump's assertion -- which aligned with Putin's preference -- that the two sides should negotiate a complete end to the war, rather than first securing a ceasefire. Zelenskyy said a ceasefire would provide breathing room to review Putin's demands.
"It's impossible to do this under the pressure of weapons," he said. "Putin does not want to stop the killing, but he must do it."
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Sign Our PetitionThe meeting between European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington, following a history of tumultuous U.S.-Russia relations and Ukraine's ongoing conflict, serves as a poignant illustration of geopolitical dynamics and the fragility of national sovereignty. The backdrop of this engagement is critical; since Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent war in Eastern Ukraine, the European Union and NATO have had to reassess their strategic frameworks to counter Russian aggression. This gathering reflects not just a united front of Western powers but also the urgent need for a coherent and effective response to Russia’s military incursions, which threaten the very fabric of international law and the principles of self-determination.
Historically, the West’s approach to Russia has oscillated between confrontation and cooperation. The end of the Cold War was characterized by a flurry of optimism, yet the post-9/11 world, with its focus on counter-terrorism, has often sidelined critical discussions around Eastern European security. The current dynamics, wherein European leaders rally behind Zelenskyy, underscore the necessity for a more robust security strategy that transcends mere rhetoric. Retired French General Dominique Trinquand's assessment highlights how European leaders are keenly aware of the power dynamics at play, particularly with Trump’s unpredictable diplomacy. As such, the presence of European allies at this meeting is not merely a show of solidarity but a strategic maneuver designed to bolster Ukraine's position in negotiations with a U.S. administration that has demonstrated a willingness to engage with Russia without adequate regard for allies.
The proposed security guarantees echo Article 5 of NATO, which asserts that an attack on one member is an attack on all. This principle is foundational to the idea of collective security, yet the discussions surrounding Ukraine reveal a chasm between theoretical commitments and practical support. The European leaders’ insistence on tangible commitments—training, equipment, and long-term financial support for Ukraine’s armed forces—reflects a hard-learned lesson from past engagements. The failure to stabilize Ukraine through diplomatic means or to support its military capabilities can lead to further destabilization in Eastern Europe, emboldening Russian aggression and undermining the security of NATO allies.
Moreover, this moment is emblematic of a broader struggle for autonomy in the post-Soviet space. Ukraine’s fight is not merely about territorial integrity but also about asserting its independence from Russian hegemony. The support from European countries and the U.S. is crucial not just for Ukraine's military capability but also for the legitimacy of its government and its aspirations for a European future. The historical context is vital here; Ukraine has been at the intersection of East and West for centuries, and the current conflict can be seen as a continuation of its struggle for self-definition against imperial influences. The U.S. and European allies have a moral obligation to stand firm against the erosion of Ukraine's sovereignty.
The proposed allied force in Ukraine, as suggested by Macron, raises critical questions about the nature of international military intervention. While there is a legitimate need to protect Ukraine from further Russian incursions, it is essential that any foreign military presence is framed within the context of supporting local governance and self-determination rather than imposing external control. The historical precedent of foreign interventions often leading to protracted conflicts and instability must be acknowledged; thus, engagement should prioritize Ukrainian agency and the voices of those who are directly affected by the ongoing conflict.
In conclusion, the meeting between European leaders and President Zelenskyy is a critical juncture in the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. It represents not only an opportunity to reaffirm commitments to collective security but also a chance for the West to engage in a more principled and effective manner that respects the sovereignty and aspirations of the Ukrainian people. As the global landscape evolves, it is essential to learn from historical precedents and prioritize genuine solidarity over expedient diplomacy. The stakes are high; the outcome of these discussions could shape the future of not just Ukraine, but the balance of power in Europe for generations to come.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the geopolitical tensions that have persisted since the end of the Cold War. The recent meeting between European leaders and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington, aimed at solidifying U.S. security commitments, reveals the multifaceted nature of international relations today. This dynamic is not only crucial for Ukraine's sovereignty but also raises questions about the role of the United States in global politics and the obligation that comes with its superpower status. In this context, the implications of U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration are particularly troubling, as they often prioritize transactional deals over long-term diplomatic strategies.
Historically, the U.S. has positioned itself as a champion of democracy and a stabilizing force in Europe, especially after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. However, the ambivalence displayed by Trump's administration towards traditional allies and the NATO alliance has fundamentally shifted perceptions of American reliability. The upcoming discussions in Washington, underscored by Zelenskyy's prior exclusion from meetings with Trump and the urgency expressed by European leaders, highlight the need for renewed commitment to collective security. If the U.S. fails to engage meaningfully, it risks emboldening authoritarian regimes and undermining the fragile democracies allied against them.
As concerned citizens, we must recognize that the actions of our government have far-reaching effects beyond our borders. It is essential to advocate for a foreign policy that emphasizes solidarity with democratic nations, particularly those facing aggression from autocratic powers like Russia. Contacting representatives to express support for robust security guarantees for Ukraine is one avenue for action. This includes urging Congress to allocate funds for military and humanitarian aid, as well as advocating for diplomatic solutions that prioritize the voices of the Ukrainian people over political expediency.
Moreover, educating ourselves and our communities on the historical context of the Ukraine-Russia conflict is vital. Engaging in discussions that unpack the complexities of NATO, the implications of Article 5, and the importance of international alliances can empower individuals to counter narratives that downplay the significance of U.S. involvement. As right-wing arguments often lean towards isolationism or skepticism of international commitments, presenting a well-informed counterpoint grounded in historical precedent and moral responsibility is crucial.
In conclusion, the situation in Ukraine underscores not only a critical moment in European security but also serves as a reflection of broader global challenges. As citizens, we must hold our leaders accountable to a foreign policy that fosters collaboration and support for allies rather than one that risks retreating into isolationism. By advocating for comprehensive security commitments, engaging in community education, and actively communicating with our representatives, we can contribute to a more just and stable international order. The responsibility to shape our foreign policy lies not only with our elected officials but with each of us as informed and engaged citizens.
In light of the pivotal discussions surrounding Ukraine's security and the geopolitical dynamics involving the U.S. and European leaders, it is crucial for individuals to engage actively in advocating for peace and support for Ukraine. Here are some concrete actions and ideas to consider:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Advocate for Humanitarian Aid:** - Support organizations providing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. - Share educational content about the situation to raise awareness in your community.
2. **Engage in Political Advocacy:** - Contact elected officials to express support for Ukraine and advocate for robust U.S. involvement in peacekeeping and support.
3. **Raise Awareness and Mobilize:** - Organize or participate in local events to raise awareness about the conflict and the need for diplomatic solutions.
### Exact Actions We Can Take
1. **Petition for Increased Support for Ukraine:** - Start or sign petitions that advocate for increased humanitarian aid and security assistance for Ukraine. Websites like Change.org or MoveOn.org often host such petitions. - Example Petition: "Support Ukraine's Right to Defense and Humanitarian Aid" on Change.org.
2. **Contact Elected Officials:** - Write to your congressional representatives and senators urging them to support comprehensive measures for Ukraine. - **Example Contacts:** - **Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY)** - Email: schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck - Office Address: 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 - **Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)** - Email: pelosi.house.gov/contact - Office Address: 1236 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
3. **Draft a Letter or Email:** - Use the following template to express your views:
``` Subject: Urgent Support for Ukraine
Dear [Official's Name],
I am writing to urge you to support robust measures that ensure comprehensive security assistance and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. The ongoing conflict has had devastating effects on countless civilians, and it is imperative that the U.S. plays a proactive role in supporting Ukraine's right to defend itself and secure peace in the region.
Please advocate for increased funding for humanitarian programs and military assistance that aligns with Ukraine's needs, while also pushing for diplomatic solutions to bring about a lasting peace.
Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```
4. **Participate in Local Activism:** - Join or form local advocacy groups focused on international peace and security issues. - Attend town hall meetings to raise the topic of U.S. policy towards Ukraine and express community concerns.
5. **Leverage Social Media:** - Use social media platforms to share information and updates about the situation in Ukraine. - Create a campaign or hashtag to garner attention and engage others in advocacy efforts.
6. **Attend Demonstrations and Rallies:** - Participate in or organize peaceful protests advocating for Ukraine's sovereignty and against aggression. - Check local community boards or social media for upcoming events.
7. **Educate Yourself and Others:** - Stay informed on the latest developments and share articles, documentaries, and books that provide insights into the Ukraine conflict. - Host discussion groups or informational sessions to engage your community on the topic.
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute meaningfully to the conversation surrounding Ukraine’s future and advocate for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.