Zelensky wants security guarantees before a deal
thetimes.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 4:58:11 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–NATO Relations, U.S.–Russia Relations, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights
Putin also refused to agree to a ceasefire, leading Trump to say it was not necessary because a comprehensive peace deal was in sight. Zelensky continued to argue otherwise.
* There was intense fighting in the Donetsk region of the Donbas with both sides in a race to secure gains in the crucial strategic territory.
* Steve Witkoff, Trump's special envoy, claimed the president had dropped his demand for a ceasefire in favour of a peace deal after making "significant progress" at the Alaska summit.
* Zelensky, speaking in Brussels, argued that a ceasefire was necessary in order to secure a lasting peace.
* Anthony Loyd: The ball is in Zelensky's court but he is in an impossible position
The spectacle of a praetorian guard of leaders flying into Washington to back up Zelensky comes 48 hours after Trump rolled out the red carpet for Putin on US soil to kickstart the hard bargaining required for a durable peace.
Starmer will join President Macron of France, Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, and Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister of Italy, with the aim of avoiding a repeat of the public browbeating Zelensky received from Trump and JD Vance, the vice-president, in February. They will also be joined by Mark Rutte, secretary-general of Nato, Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Commission, and Alexander Stubb, the Finnish president who has struck up a rapport with Trump over rounds of golf.
Government sources indicated that it was not expected that a deal would be achieved on Monday, and the meeting should be seen as a continuation of talks and an ongoing process.
"We are going to Washington to defend Ukraine and our interests as Europeans. Our goal is to present a united front," said Macron. "The situation as it stands now ... is extremely serious. If we show weakness today in front of Russia, we are laying the ground for future conflicts."
Trump will be told that Ukraine and Europe will not accept limits demanded by Russia on the size of the Ukrainian armed forces or restrictions on Europe's military assistance such as air defence or long range missiles.
Europeans have been reassured by briefings from Trump that he will back a mutual defence clause outside Nato.
Witkoff said on Sunday that Russia would "codify" non-aggression against Ukraine and European nations as part of a settlement. "We agreed to robust security guarantees that I would describe as game-changing," Witkoff told CNN. "We managed to secure the following concession: that the United States could offer protection comparable to Article 5 [the Nato mutual defence clause]."
Russia had also agreed to unspecified concessions on the five Ukrainian regions central to the fighting, he said.
Witkoff added that "the one thing that the president cannot agree to on behalf of the Ukrainians is any sort of land swap -- that is for the Ukrainians."
However, Trump posted on Truth Social: "Ukraine must be willing to lose some territory to Russia otherwise the longer the war goes on they will keep losing even more land!!"
Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, played down Putin's insistence on resolving "root causes" -- taken to mean the very existence of Ukraine, its military and its language -- and told CBS: "If we're being honest and serious here, both sides are going to have to give, and both sides should expect to get something . We have to make enough progress so that we can sit down President Zelensky and President Putin in the same place ... and reach a final agreement that ends this war."
Macron said maintaining Ukraine's military strength would be "the first pillar of security guarantee" after past agreements were ignored by Russia. "Any agreement based on the absence or on the reduction of a Ukrainian army would be a deceitful agreement, doomed not to be respected," he said.
* Katy Balls: Trump gave Putin the spotlight and left us all guessing
Zelensky, speaking in Brussels, said he was still pushing for a ceasefire: "It's impossible to do this under the pressure of weapons."
Europe will press for a summit between Trump, Putin and Zelensky as soon as possible, with the offer of a venue in Europe, to be followed by a ceasefire if a peace deal is possible.
After a meeting of the coalition of the willing on Sunday, Downing Street said the leaders "reaffirmed their continued support to Ukraine, and praised President Zelensky's desire for a just and lasting peace". A spokesman said: "They re-emphasised the readiness to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased, and to help secure Ukraine's skies and seas and regenerate Ukraine's armed forces."
Sign Our PetitionThe ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly in the Donbas region, has drawn attention to the complexities of international diplomacy and the long-standing historical tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The recent developments surrounding President Volodymyr Zelensky's insistence on security guarantees before any deal can be struck reflect not only the immediate geopolitical landscape but also the broader implications for regional stability and the sovereignty of nations. The idea of security guarantees, especially in light of Russia’s aggressive military posture, is not merely a matter of negotiation tactics; it is a critical stance rooted in the historical context of Eastern European security dynamics, shaped by years of Russian expansionism and Western responses.
The Donbas conflict, which has its roots in the 2014 annexation of Crimea by Russia, represents a significant flashpoint in the post-Cold War order. For years, Ukraine has sought to align itself more closely with Western institutions, particularly NATO and the EU, as a bulwark against Russian influence. This struggle for sovereignty and self-determination resonates deeply with historical struggles for independence across the globe, echoing the sentiments of nations that have fought against imperialistic forces. As Zelensky navigates this treacherous diplomatic terrain, the insistence on a ceasefire as a precursor to any substantive peace deal is a reflection of a broader understanding that lasting peace cannot be achieved through military dominance alone; it requires a commitment to dialogue and mutual recognition of sovereignty.
The presence of leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Washington underscores a unified European front, while their anticipation of an ongoing process suggests a recognition that solutions are rarely straightforward. Macron's warning against showing weakness in the face of Russian aggression serves as a reminder of the historical lessons learned from appeasement, particularly in the lead-up to World War II. The specter of past conflicts looms large, and the need for a cohesive response to authoritarian challenges is more pressing than ever. In this context, Zelensky's position becomes even more precarious; he must balance the demands of his allies with the realities on the ground, where territorial integrity and national pride are at stake.
Donald Trump’s remarks, particularly his suggestion that Ukraine might need to concede territory, reveal a troubling perspective that often surfaces in discussions about conflict resolution. Such a stance not only undermines the principles of self-determination but also inadvertently legitimizes aggressive territorial claims made by autocratic regimes. This attitude echoes historical instances where powerful nations have imposed compromises on weaker states, often leading to resentment and further conflict. The narrative that peace requires sacrifice at the expense of sovereignty deserves scrutiny; it is crucial to advocate for a resolution that respects Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, rather than one that appeases aggressors.
As the world watches these negotiations unfold, it is vital to connect the dots between the current conflict and broader social justice movements. The fight for Ukraine is emblematic of a larger struggle against authoritarianism and for the right of nations to determine their own futures free from coercive pressure. This struggle intersects with global movements advocating for human rights, democracy, and self-determination. Solidarity with Ukraine should not merely be a political stance; it must also resonate with the principles of justice that underpin many contemporary social movements worldwide. Understanding the nuances of these dynamics can empower advocates to push back against narratives that diminish the importance of sovereignty and self-determination in international relations.
In conclusion, the ongoing situation in Ukraine is a microcosm of larger global issues regarding power, resistance, and the quest for justice. The delicate negotiations between Zelensky, Trump, and European leaders highlight the complexities of securing peace in a volatile region, where historical grievances inform contemporary realities. As discussions progress, it is imperative to remain vigilant about the implications of any agreements made, ensuring that they are rooted in respect for sovereignty and the rights of nations. This perspective not only honors the sacrifices made by the Ukrainian people but also reinforces the importance of a principled approach to international relations that champions justice and peace over expediency.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine highlights a critical juncture in international relations, particularly in the context of power dynamics shaped by both historical tensions and contemporary geopolitical interests. As Western leaders, including President Zelensky of Ukraine, grapple with the complex demands of negotiating peace with Russia, the rhetoric of figures like Donald Trump serves to illustrate the conflicting narratives surrounding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The insistence on security guarantees for Ukraine underscores a broader theme: the need for a robust commitment to international norms that respect the sovereignty of nations while ensuring collective security against aggression.
Historically, the region has been marred by conflict, particularly in the wake of the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Ukraine's independence in 1991 brought hope for a new era, yet the shadow of Russian influence has loomed large, especially following the annexation of Crimea in 2014. This backdrop is crucial to understanding the current negotiations, as Zelensky seeks not just immediate security guarantees but a lasting framework that secures Ukraine’s sovereignty in the face of Russian expansionism. The current discourse reveals a troubling tendency among some leaders, including Trump, to prioritize expediency over principles, suggesting compromises that could undermine Ukraine’s territorial integrity. This is not just a matter of regional stability; it reflects deep-seated issues about how power is negotiated on the global stage.
The assertion by Trump that Ukraine might need to concede territory to Russia raises profound ethical questions about the cost of peace. It suggests a transactional view of international relations that can lead to a dangerous precedent: that nations can be compelled to negotiate away their sovereignty under the guise of achieving stability. This is a critical point to raise in discussions with skeptics of Ukraine’s position. It is essential to remind them that the principles of national sovereignty and self-determination are cornerstones of international law, and ceding territory to aggressors could embolden further violations of these principles worldwide.
As concerned citizens, it is imperative to advocate for a principled approach to international conflicts. This can manifest in various forms, including supporting policies that emphasize diplomatic efforts grounded in respect for national sovereignty and human rights. Engaging in grassroots movements that hold leaders accountable for their foreign policy decisions is crucial. We must also leverage social media and public forums to educate others about the implications of compromising on sovereignty, drawing parallels with historical instances where appeasement led to greater conflicts. Mobilizing public opinion can create pressure on elected officials to prioritize principled stances over political expediency.
Lastly, continued education about global conflicts and their historical contexts is vital for fostering informed discussions. Hosting community forums, creating informative content, and encouraging critical thinking about foreign policy can empower individuals to engage more deeply with these issues. By arming ourselves with knowledge, we can counteract the narratives that diminish the importance of sovereignty and human rights in international affairs. Engaging with right-wing perspectives doesn’t mean compromising on values; instead, it can open up avenues for meaningful dialogue that ultimately reinforces the need for a comprehensive and principled approach to global peace. In doing so, we not only advocate for Ukraine but for a world where the sovereignty of all nations is respected and upheld.
Analyzing the current geopolitical tensions and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine requires a multifaceted approach, particularly concerning peace and security in the region. Here are several actionable ideas and steps that individuals can take to influence positive change and support efforts for a peaceful resolution.
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: Understanding the intricacies of the Ukraine-Russia conflict is crucial. Share articles, books, and documentaries that provide insights into the historical context and current situation. Engage in discussions within your community, schools, or workplaces to raise awareness.
2. **Support Humanitarian Organizations**: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations that provide aid to those affected by the conflict. This could be local NGOs or international entities like the International Red Cross or UNICEF.
3. **Advocate for Peace**: Join or support movements and organizations that advocate for peaceful resolutions to conflicts. This could involve participating in peace marches, writing articles, or engaging in social media campaigns.
### Specific Actions to Take
1. **Petitions**: Start or sign petitions that call for peace initiatives or humanitarian aid in Ukraine. Websites like Change.org or MoveOn.org often have active petitions on current issues.
- **Example Petition**: "Support Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine" on Change.org. You can create your own petition if you feel strongly about a specific aspect of the conflict.
2. **Contact Your Representatives**: Reach out to your local and national representatives to express your views on the conflict and urge them to support peace initiatives and increased humanitarian aid.
- **Who to Write To**: - Your local congressional representative - U.S. Senators (e.g., Senator Chuck Schumer - schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck) - Your state governor
- **Example Email**: ``` Subject: Urgent Call for Peace in Ukraine
Dear [Representative's Name],
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. I urge you to support diplomatic efforts that prioritize a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to this crisis. Additionally, please advocate for increased humanitarian assistance to those affected by the violence.
Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] ```
3. **Engage on Social Media**: Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to raise awareness about the conflict. Share informative content, personal insights, and news updates to mobilize your network.
4. **Participate in Local Events**: Attend town hall meetings, community forums, or rallies focused on international peace and security. Engage with local activists and organizations that work on these issues.
5. **Write to International Leaders**: Letting global leaders know that their constituents care about peace in Ukraine can be impactful. Write letters to:
- **European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen** Email: contact@ec.europa.eu USPS Address: European Commission, Rue de la Loi 200, 1049 Brussels, Belgium
- **French President Emmanuel Macron** Email: contact@elysee.fr USPS Address: Palais de l'Élysée, 55 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris, France
6. **Support Local Ukrainian Communities**: Many cities have Ukrainian cultural centers or communities. Engage with them to understand their needs and how you can help.
### Conclusion
Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a broader movement for peace and security. By taking these steps, you can play a vital role in advocating for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine and supporting those affected by the crisis.