During a conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Zelensky discussed his earlier telephone consultation with Trump and the available diplomatic options. He thanked her for the European Union's support and emphasized that Ukraine aims for a fair and genuine end to the war, with Europe's backing.
Zelensky underlined that the EU will play a key role in Ukraine's reconstruction and called this one of the continent's largest economic projects over the next ten years. He pointed out that Ukraine is already in accession talks and that the country will become part of the European Union.
The meeting between Trump and Putin is scheduled for August 15 in Alaska. Putin had earlier mentioned the United Arab Emirates as a location, but both parties ultimately chose a place where the risk of legal complications around Putin could be avoided. The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague has issued an international arrest warrant against Putin. The Kremlin called Alaska a logical choice.
Putin indicated that he does not want Zelensky or the EU to participate in the talks. An earlier proposal discussed by U.S. envoy Steve Wittkof on the Russian side included, among other things, the demand that Ukraine cede the entire Donbas region to Russia in exchange for a ceasefire.
Trump hinted that an agreement might include territorial exchanges. This suggestion caused concern in Ukraine and among European leaders, who fear such conditions could undermine Ukraine's sovereignty. Ukraine considers such proposals unacceptable.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha warned that Russia must not be rewarded for starting the war. He stated that Russia shows no sincere interest in peace and continues attacks on civilians. Ukraine remains open to meaningful dialogue with real solutions, he said.
Within the EU, it has already been agreed to increase support for Ukraine, partly out of fear that Trump will reduce U.S. military aid. European countries want to prevent Ukraine from ending up in a disadvantageous negotiating position in possible bilateral arrangements between Washington and Moscow.
The European Commission reported that the form and timing of future peace talks remain unclear. It is still uncertain whether the EU will participate, but Brussels stresses that Ukraine itself must be involved in all negotiations about its future.