President Donald Trump has stated he addressed European leaders with “strong words” regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This comes as Kyiv reports submitting a revised plan to the United States aimed at resolving the crisis.
Trump indicated that during recent discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, he employed firm language. He elaborated that the European leaders, during a phone call, proposed a meeting concerning Ukraine later this week. However, Trump noted that a decision on U.S. participation has not yet been made.
“Before going to a meeting, there are things we want to know,” Trump stated at the White House. “We will make a decision” regarding the meeting, adding, “We don’t want to waste our time.” Trump has recently expressed impatience with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of not having “read” the U.S. peace proposal.
The Élysée Palace stated that the leaders discussed the latest developments in the U.S.-led mediation efforts and welcomed efforts to achieve a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine and put an end to the bloodshed.
Chancellor Merz emphasized that Ukraine alone should determine the shape of any acceptable territorial settlement, adding that it requires strong security guarantees from the United States and NATO. Merz further stated that increasing pressure on Russia through additional sanctions is necessary to push Moscow towards serious negotiations. He suggested that frozen Russian state assets in Europe represent the most significant leverage currently available.
Meanwhile, sources report that Kyiv has submitted a modified draft plan to the United States. Details of the plan remain undisclosed, but one Ukrainian official stated that the plan “takes into account Ukraine’s vision” and is “an additional proposal for suitable solutions to problematic issues.” The official added, “We will not disclose the details until we see a response.”
