On the 15th (local time), as the leaders of the United States and Russia are expected to meet to discuss the resolution of the Ukraine war, European leaders expressed that Ukrainian representatives must participate in the discussions regarding the cessation of hostilities in Ukraine.
According to reports from Reuters and others, the leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Finland, along with the President of the European Commission, issued a joint statement on the night of the 9th, saying, "Without Ukraine, we cannot determine the path to peace in Ukraine."
The leaders noted, "Ukraine must still adhere to the principle that it should not change borders by force," and stated, "The current front lines should serve as the starting point for negotiations."
They further stated that ceasefire or peace negotiations can only take place in situations where hostilities are reduced, adding, "We agree on the necessity of strong and reliable security guarantees to enable Ukraine to effectively defend its sovereignty and territory."
European leaders expressed support for President Donald Trump's efforts to achieve peace. They stated, "Only an approach that combines active diplomacy, support for Ukraine, and pressure on Russia to terminate its illegal war can succeed."
Concerns are being raised within Ukraine about President Trump and President Vladimir Putin of Russia meeting on the 15th without Ukraine's presence. Although President Trump anticipated a trilateral meeting, it has been reported that Russia rejected this.
Meanwhile, U.S. NBC reported that the White House is considering inviting President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Alaska. A source quoted by NBC stated, "The idea of inviting Zelenskyy is being discussed," but it has not yet been finalized.