Next week, European leaders will meet for an urgent summit to discuss the war in Ukraine. This meeting comes after concerns that the US is moving forward with peace talks with Russia, potentially sidelining Europe.

Keir Starmer’s Call for Unity

Sir Keir Starmer, expected to attend the summit in Paris, described the situation as a “once-in-a-generation moment” for national security. He emphasized that Europe must play a larger role in NATO. Starmer stressed that the US and Europe need to unite to effectively address the war.

US-Russia Peace Talks Exclude Europe

Keith Kellogg, former special envoy to Ukraine, stated that while European leaders would be consulted, they would not be part of the peace talks between the US and Russia. US officials will also meet with Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in Saudi Arabia in the coming days. These talks aim to move towards ending the war.

Kellogg’s Remarks Raise Concerns

Kellogg’s comments have raised concerns in Ukraine and among European allies. He said previous negotiations failed because too many parties were involved. "It may be like chalk on the blackboard, it may grate a little bit, but I am telling you something that is really quite honest," Kellogg added.

Lessons from Minsk Agreements

Europe remains affected by the failed Minsk agreements, a 2015 ceasefire deal brokered by France and Germany. The agreements were meant to end the fighting in Ukraine’s Donbas region but ultimately failed.

Keir Starmer’s Efforts to Bridge the Divide

Sir Keir Starmer aims to bridge the gap between the US and Europe. He wants to ensure both work together for a united peace effort in Ukraine. The UK Prime Minister plans to meet President Trump at the White House later this month to discuss European leaders’ views. Another meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky will follow.

Maintaining US-Europe Unity

Starmer stressed the importance of keeping the US and Europe united. "This is a once-in-a-generation moment for our national security where we engage with the reality of the world today and the threat we face from Russia," he said. He believes Europe must take a bigger role in NATO to help secure Ukraine’s future.

Poland Supports Macron’s Summit Call

Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski revealed that French President Emmanuel Macron called for the summit. However, Macron has not yet officially announced the event. Sikorski also noted that President Trump’s approach of “reconnaissance through battle” could force Europe to adjust its strategy.

Zelensky Calls for European Army

At the Munich Security Conference, President Zelensky called for the creation of a "European army." He expressed concern that the US may no longer support Europe as it did in the past. He also warned that Ukraine would never accept deals made without its involvement. Zelensky’s comments came after Trump and Putin agreed to start peace talks.

Trump’s Confidence in Peace Talks

Trump announced that he had a lengthy phone conversation with Putin, discussing the start of peace talks to end the war. Trump believes his leadership style will help bring peace to Ukraine. This marks the end of over three years of silence between Washington and Moscow.

US-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia

US officials confirmed that peace talks will soon take place in Saudi Arabia, with Russian and Ukrainian negotiators. Zelensky has been invited to attend. These talks aim to bring Trump, Putin, and Zelensky together to find a solution to the conflict.

JD Vance Criticizes European Democracies

JD Vance, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, criticized European democracies. He argued that the greatest threat to Europe is internal divisions, not external forces like Russia and China. He reiterated the Trump administration’s call for Europe to step up and defend itself.

Call for Increased Defense Spending

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy also spoke at the conference, urging Europe to spend more on defense. He warned that even if a peace deal is reached in Ukraine, Putin’s threat will not disappear. Lammy emphasized that NATO countries, including the UK, need to increase defense spending to face future challenges.