Janice R. Andrews
European leaders are reeling after the US announced plans to negotiate a Ukraine peace deal with Russia, excluding European nations from the talks. The surprise move, revealed during the Munich Security Conference, has sparked fears over Ukrainian sovereignty and European security.
US President Donald Trump confirmed plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the war in Ukraine, assuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a role in the talks. However, US officials clarified that European nations would not be involved, leaving allies stunned. US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg emphasized that the upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia would only include Washington, Moscow, and Kyiv.
The decision has raised concerns about sidelining Europe in critical security matters. Munich Security Chairman Christoph Heusgen stressed, “Europe is not nice to have. Europe is a must-have,” highlighting the urgency for a unified response.
In response, European leaders are organizing an emergency summit in Paris on Monday to address the crisis. French President Emmanuel Macron is spearheading the effort, aiming to solidify Europe’s stance on Ukraine and regional security.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy expressed frustration over being excluded from the Saudi Arabia talks, stating Ukraine would not engage with Russia without consulting its strategic partners.
The Munich Security Conference, attended by global leaders and envoys, underscored the deepening divide between the US and Europe on Ukraine. As tensions rise, Europe is racing to assert its role in shaping the future of Ukrainian peace and regional stability.
