Ukraine and Europe must be involved in any peace talks, say NATO leaders

Thursday 13 February 2025 - 10:05

NATO's European members insist that Ukraine must play a central role in any peace negotiations, emphasizing that any agreement to end Russia’s war against Kyiv must be sustainable. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reaffirmed this stance following an announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump that he had agreed with Russian President Vladimir Putin to initiate peace talks.

Speaking ahead of a NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels, Rutte stressed the necessity of Ukraine’s involvement in all discussions concerning its future. French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu described the situation as a "moment of truth" for NATO, questioning whether the alliance would maintain its historical strength in the coming decades.

Meanwhile, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius criticized the U.S. administration’s approach, calling it regrettable that Trump made concessions to Russia even before negotiations began. Pistorius also warned that even if a peace deal is reached, Russia would continue to pose a security threat to Europe. He urged European nations to increase defense investments, emphasizing that peace can only be secured through strength.

Following Trump’s unexpected announcement, the foreign ministers of France, Germany, and Spain collectively insisted that any resolution must involve Ukraine and its European allies. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reiterated that “peace in Europe is at stake,” reinforcing the necessity of European participation in the talks.

British Defense Secretary John Healey echoed this sentiment, reminding NATO allies that Russia’s threat extends beyond Ukraine. "There can be no negotiation about Ukraine without Ukraine," he stated.

Despite growing concerns among European allies, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended Trump’s initiative, denying any betrayal of Ukraine. He asserted that achieving peace requires compromise from both sides. However, he also urged European nations to take greater responsibility for countering Russian aggression and to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP.

While Trump’s stance suggests a shift in U.S. foreign policy, Sweden’s Defense Minister Pal Jonson maintained that NATO membership for Ukraine remains a possibility if it meets the necessary conditions in the future.

As NATO members deliberate on the next steps, European leaders continue to emphasize the need for Ukraine's involvement, ensuring that any peace agreement is both just and lasting.