Overview

• Twenty-six of the EU’s twenty-seven leaders welcomed President Trump’s efforts to end Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine on condition that Kyiv has a seat at the negotiating table.
• The European Council declared that substantive talks can only begin once a ceasefire or significant reduction in hostilities is in place.
• Brussels pledged to continue political, economic, humanitarian and military support for Ukraine while maintaining existing sanctions on Russia.
• The EU and its member states said they are prepared to help design security guarantees to ensure a defensible Ukraine under international law.
• Hungary’s refusal to join the statement highlighted divisions within the bloc even as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans a virtual pre-summit meeting with President Zelensky.