After a heated exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, European leaders are rallying behind Zelensky. This unprecedented situation has also sparked discussions about reducing Europe’s dependency on the United States.
Key Developments:
UK’s Response: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke separately with both Trump and Zelensky. His spokesperson stated that Starmer supports a lasting peace agreement based on Ukraine’s territorial integrity and pledged continued support for Ukraine.
France’s Stand: French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed his support for Ukraine, stating, “Russia is the aggressor here, and Ukraine is the victim.”
Germany’s Position: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reassured Ukraine, saying, “No one wants peace more than the Ukrainians. We are only working towards lasting peace. Ukraine can rely on Germany and Europe.”
EU’s Strong Message: European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, took a firm stance, suggesting the need for a “new leader of the free world” and encouraged Zelensky to “stay strong.”
NATO’s Backing: After the incident with Trump, Zelensky also spoke with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who reaffirmed NATO’s support for Ukraine.
Baltic and Allied Support: Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda stated, “Ukraine, you will never walk alone,” emphasizing the dire consequences if Ukraine stops fighting.
Support from Other Allies: Leaders from Canada, Australia, and New Zealand also stood by Zelensky. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, “Russia has attacked Ukraine illegally and without reason. For the past three years, Ukrainians have fought bravely for freedom, democracy, and territorial integrity—values that matter to all of us.”
Exception in Europe: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban supported Trump, stating, “A strong person brings peace. A weak person starts wars. President Trump has stood bravely for peace.”