Overview

• U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans for high-level talks involving U.S., Russian, and possibly Ukrainian officials at the Munich Security Conference, though Ukraine denies planning direct talks with Russia.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated that no agreements regarding Ukraine can be made without its involvement, rejecting any negotiations that exclude Ukraine or its European allies.
• U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that returning to Ukraine's pre-2014 borders is unrealistic and NATO membership is unlikely, signaling a policy shift that has drawn criticism from European leaders and Ukrainian officials.
• European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, insist on Ukraine and Europe's inclusion in any peace process, warning against a deal that undermines regional security.
• Trump's outreach to Russian President Vladimir Putin has sparked concerns in Ukraine and Europe about potential concessions to Russia, while Zelensky continues to push for strong security guarantees in any agreement.