US Vice-President Mike Pence's recent speech has stirred anxiety among European leaders regarding President Trump's approach to the peace deal in Ukraine. On Friday, Pence's comments highlighted a direction that raised concerns about the exclusion of Europe from crucial negotiations that might shape the region's security landscape. The fear among European leaders centers on a potential agreement that benefits the US but poses long-term security challenges for Europe.
The apprehensions grew when Trump's special envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, disclosed that while Europe would be consulted, it would ultimately be excluded from the planned peace talks between Russia, the US, and Ukraine. Kellogg emphasized that these discussions would take place without direct European involvement, a revelation that has prompted various European leaders to voice their concerns.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has responded by urging Europe to formulate its own plan of action concerning Ukraine and regional security. He stressed the urgency for Europe to act swiftly, warning that other global players might otherwise determine Europe's future without aligning with its interests.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is currently resisting attempts by President Trump to gain control over 50% of Ukraine's rare earth minerals. This strategic resource is crucial for Ukraine, and Zelenskyy has rejected an offer from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The proposed deal lacked the anticipated US security guarantees in case of a ceasefire, making it unacceptable to Ukraine. Zelenskyy has made it clear that Ukraine will not accept agreements forged without its participation, echoing a broader sentiment shared by European nations.
“A few days ago, President Trump told me about his conversation with Putin. Not once did he mention that America needs Europe at that table. That says a lot. The old days are over – when America supported Europe just because it always had. Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement. And the same rule should apply to all of Europe. No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine. No decisions about Europe without Europe.” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
President Trump has proposed that the US deserves half a trillion dollars' worth of Ukraine's resources in exchange for assistance. This proposal has heightened tensions, with Zelenskyy expressing firm opposition to such terms.
Kellogg, speaking on the pace of negotiations, noted he was operating on "Trump time" and expected an agreement within weeks and months. He also highlighted that the current NATO defense spending target of 2% is insufficient, suggesting a need for increased contributions from member countries.
“He said he was working on ‘Trump time’, adding he expected an agreement in weeks and months.”
Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna remains optimistic about the intentions of the US to end the war in a just manner.
"There is a very serious intention and determination to end the war in a just way, and that it should be ended in a manner that it does not happen again. We are not only talking about ending the war, but also preventing it happening again.” – Olha Stefanishyna
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron has taken steps to address these concerns by inviting European leaders to Paris on Sunday to discuss the unfolding situation. The meeting aims to unite European voices and potentially craft a cohesive strategy moving forward.
In Poland, Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski mentioned that NATO is expected to adopt a new spending target at its upcoming meeting in May. The anticipated target could exceed 3% of GDP, signaling a significant shift in defense priorities for member countries.
“Europe urgently needs its own plan of action concerning Ukraine and our security, or else other global players will decide about our future. Not necessarily in line with our own interest … This plan must be prepared now. There’s no time to lose.” – Donald Tusk
The evolving dynamics have led Zelenskyy to call for a unified European military force, reflecting a growing sentiment among European leaders about the need for independent defense capabilities.
“Let’s be honest – now we can’t rule out the possibility that America might say ‘no’ to Europe on issues that threaten it. Many leaders have talked about a Europe that needs its own military – an army of Europe. I believe that the time has come. The armed forces of Europe must be created.” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy