Why it matters:
While Europe has poured billions into supporting Ukraine against Russia, U.S. President Donald Trump has excluded European leaders from direct peace negotiations with Moscow, a move that analysts say has weakened Europe’s leverage.
The big picture :
The London summit focused again on “increasing pressure on Russia,” but leaders offered no new strategies.
A UK government spokesperson said all parties agreed this is a “critical moment” and pledged to continue economic pressure on Putin while supporting Ukraine’s defense.
What we're hearing:
Trump accused Zelensky of failing to study his latest peace proposal and told Sky News he was “a little disappointed” in the Ukrainian leader. Trump insisted Vladimir Putin “has no problem” with the plan. His son suggested Trump might even withdraw from the peace process.
What they’re saying:
Starmer stressed any ceasefire must be “fair and lasting.”
Macron said allies “hold many cards” but gave no details.
Merz expressed doubts about parts of the U.S. peace documents.
Zelensky, on his 11th visit to London, admitted: “We cannot manage the peace plan without the Americans, nor without Europe. That’s why we must take important decisions.”
The bottom line:
Despite heavy financial and political investment, Europe finds itself sidelined in Trump’s negotiations with Russia, leaving its position weakened and its role in shaping Ukraine’s future uncertain.
Go deeper:
Zelensky to Meet Trump, Says Ukraine Won’t Repeat “Past Mistakes”
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi
