Scholz and Zelenskyy Stress Unity as Trump Presidency Looms Over Ukraine War

European leaders reaffirm support for Ukraine while uncertainties grow over future U.S. military aid under incoming President Trump.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed optimism after his second call with President-elect Donald Trump, emphasizing the need for a coordinated transatlantic approach to Ukraine policy.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged EU leaders to strengthen security guarantees and called for continued U.S. support, warning against premature peace negotiations with Russia.
Trump's upcoming inauguration raises concerns in Kyiv and Europe, as he has signaled potential cuts to U.S. military aid and a push for peace talks that could involve territorial concessions by Ukraine.
French President Emmanuel Macron's proposal for European peacekeeping troops in Ukraine received mixed reactions, with Scholz and others deeming the idea premature.
On the battlefield, Russian forces reportedly advanced in the Donetsk region, while Ukrainian troops faced heavy assaults near Kursk, including attacks involving North Korean soldiers.