German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday that European leaders are working to ensure Friday’s summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska is successful. After a virtual meeting with Trump, Merz told The Guardian that the US president “largely shares” Europe’s position on the Ukraine war.
“Us Europeans therefore do what we can to set the course for this meeting in the right way,” he said.
Moreover, Merz emphasized that a ceasefire must come first to achieve lasting peace. He reaffirmed that “borders must not be changed through violence.” In addition, he said any territorial talks should respect the current contact line under international law. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of “robust safety assurances for Ukraine.”
“The strategy is based on supporting Ukraine and putting pressure on Russia. So if in Alaska there’s no movement on the Russian side, then the US and the Europeans need to increase the pressure,” Merz said. He added that Trump “largely shares” Europe’s position.
Describing his talks with Trump as “very good” and “constructive,” Merz expressed cautious optimism. “There is hope that something is moving. There’s hope that there could be peace in Ukraine,” he added.
Zelenskyy Stresses Ukraine’s Voice
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed “very intensive” coordination with European allies. He stressed that “what concerns Ukraine must be discussed with Ukraine.”
Furthermore, Zelenskyy supported a potential three-way follow-up meeting with Trump and Putin. Regarding Friday’s summit, he said the success depends on results. “Our mood now is that we are united, and it was very positive [as] all the partners spoke in one voice, one desire, the same principles and the same vision and this is an important step forward.”
On territorial concessions, Zelenskyy stated that his position has not changed. “Any questions concerning our country’s territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people and the Ukrainian constitution,” he added.
In addition, he called for new sanctions if Russia does not agree to an “immediate ceasefire.” “We hope that the central topic at the meeting will be a ceasefire. An immediate ceasefire,” Zelenskyy said. He also accused Putin of “bluffing” about being unaffected by sanctions. Trump promised to call him after the Alaska talks to debrief and discuss next steps if key objectives are not met.
Allies Highlight Unity and Support for Ukraine
Similarly, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised the coordination call on social media. He called it a “great call” and noted that the alliance stands united. “Appreciate @realDonaldTrump leadership & close coordination with Allies. The ball is now in Putin’s court,” he wrote.
In addition, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the conversation “very good.” “Today Europe, the US and NATO have strengthened the common ground for Ukraine. We will remain in close coordination. Nobody wants peace more than us, a just and lasting peace,” she said.
Meanwhile, the UK government reaffirmed its support for Ukraine. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesperson described the week as a pivotal moment for Ukraine’s future. They also thanked Trump for “his efforts in bringing Putin to the table in pursuit of a ceasefire to end the ongoing bloodshed.”
“The prime minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering – international borders must not be changed by force. Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal. Europe stands ready to support this and will continue to work alongside President Trump and President Zelenskyy for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine …,” the statement added.