Overview

• US President Donald Trump held a lengthy and 'productive' call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, announcing the start of immediate peace negotiations regarding the Ukraine war.
• Trump's approach excluded NATO allies and raised uncertainty about Ukraine's participation, prompting European leaders to demand a seat at the negotiation table.
• The proposed talks have sparked fears of a 'dictated peace' that could compromise Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, with Trump dismissing Ukraine's NATO membership as unrealistic.
• US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated a shift in American security policy, calling for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense and hinting at a potential reduction of US military presence in Europe.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed concern over being sidelined and emphasized the need for alignment with the US before engaging in talks with Russia.