EU Leaders Affirm Ukraine’s Right to Choose Its Own Destiny Ahead of Trump-Putin Summit

European Union leaders, on Tuesday, emphasised “the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny”, a significant declaration made just three days before the scheduled meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Official EU Statement on the Conflict and Peace Efforts

In a formal statement, EU leaders welcomed President Trump’s efforts to bring an end to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The statement reads:

“We, the Leaders of the European Union, welcome the efforts of President Trump towards ending Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and achieving a just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine.”

Conditions for a Just and Lasting Peace

The EU leaders underlined the fundamental conditions that must be met to secure a stable peace, reiterating the primacy of international law. The statement emphasised that:

• Peace must be just and lasting, ensuring stability and security in the region.
• It must fully respect international law, especially:
  • The principles of independence and sovereignty.
  • The territorial integrity of Ukraine.
  • The inviolability of international borders, which must not be altered by force.

Summary Table: EU’s Core Principles for Peace in Ukraine