European leaders have said intensive work will continue in the coming days on a US-led plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war, after a joint phone call with President Donald Trump.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said they agreed that this was a critical moment - for Ukraine, its people and for shared security across the Euro-Atlantic region.
Trump later said we discussed Ukraine in pretty strong words, admitting that there were some little disputes about people. The joint call comes the day after Trump called European leaders weak, suggesting the US could scale back support for Ukraine.
In a wide-ranging interview, Trump claimed Ukraine was using war to avoid holding elections, prompting President Volodymyr Zelensky to reply he was ready for them. Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and Moscow currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory.
The three European leaders issued identical statements shortly after their call with Trump on Wednesday, stating that they welcomed the ongoing US-led peace efforts and reiterated that intensive work on the plan is underway.
Sources highlight that although progress is being made, reaching an agreement remains complex, particularly concerning territorial disputes.
Trump's comments reflected the intertwining pressures on Zelensky, urging him to realistically consider territorial concessions to solidify a peace deal. Nevertheless, Zelensky has firmly resisted such demands, advocating for a ceasefire and robust security guarantees.
As diplomatic efforts unfold, the situation remains dynamic, with both European and American negotiators navigating the delicate balance of their positions in relation to Ukraine and Russia.
