EU Leaders Remain Tight-Lipped After Trump-Putin Meeting on Ukraine Crisis
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Politics
May 19, 2025 22:30
brussels - EU officials, including Ursula von der Leyen, stay silent on Trump-Putin talks regarding Ukraine. Trump claims Russia and Ukraine will negotiate peace immediately, while EU vows to support Zelenski for sustainable peace.
EU Leaders Quiet on Trump-Putin Meeting
Following talks between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin on the Ukraine crisis, EU leader Ursula von der Leyen refrains from disclosing details. Trump states Russia and Ukraine will start peace negotiations promptly, with Vatican expressing interest in facilitating. Putin mentions willingness to work with Kiev on a 'memorandum for future peace talks'.
Support for Zelenski
Trump, along with EU officials and other world leaders, met with Ukrainian President Zelenski to discuss the situation. Von der Leyen emphasizes the importance of U.S. involvement and pledges ongoing support for Zelenski in achieving lasting peace in Ukraine.
European Response
Von der Leyen describes the meeting as 'positive,' stressing the need for continued U.S. engagement. However, she refrains from commenting on the statements made by Trump and Putin. German Chancellor Merz announces plans for increased pressure on Moscow through additional sanctions.
Next Steps
Zelenski expresses readiness for direct talks with Russia, suggesting Turkey, Vatican City, or Switzerland as potential negotiation venues. He aims for high-level meetings involving the U.S. and European nations. European leaders have been urging Trump to take decisive action following recent talks and discussions, including those at the Vatican.
Recent discussions between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul yielded disappointing results due to Moscow's unreasonable demands. European leaders continue to push for a ceasefire as a prerequisite for negotiations, maintaining pressure on Trump to intervene effectively.