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Brussels, August 13, 2025 — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has reaffirmed the European Union’s unwavering stance on Ukraine’s sovereignty, emphasizing that any peace initiative must be grounded in international law and respect for territorial integrity.
Speaking via social network X, von der Leyen welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump’s diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine. However, she said that such peace must not come at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty.
“The EU welcomes U.S. President Donald Trump’s effort for a just & lasting peace in Ukraine,” von der Leyen stated. “At the same time, this must be a peace respecting international law, sovereignty & territorial integrity”.
🔍 EU Unity and Divergence
Von der Leyen reiterated that meaningful negotiations require either a ceasefire or a significant reduction in hostilities. This aligns with a recent joint statement issued by EU leaders — notably not endorsed by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán — which stresses that the Ukrainian people must retain the freedom to determine their own future.
European Council President António Costa echoed this sentiment, posting on social media:
“We stand with the Ukrainian people, united for a diplomatic solution that protects Ukraine’s & Europe’s vital security interests”.
🛑 No Concessions Without Ceasefire
Following an online meeting of EU Foreign Ministers, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas emphasized that the EU should not offer any concessions to Russia until the Kremlin agrees to a ceasefire. This position reflects growing concern over premature negotiations that could legitimize territorial occupation.
🇺🇸 U.S.-Russia Talks Raise Historical Parallels
Amid these developments, U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska. The meeting has drawn criticism from analysts, including American expert Edward Veron, who likened the scenario to the 1938 Munich Agreement — a historical moment when European powers negotiated over Czechoslovakia without its leaders present.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Putin may seek to leverage a pause in hostilities to legitimize Russia’s occupation of Ukrainian territory. According to NBC News, the White House is considering inviting Zelensky to Alaska for the summit, potentially to ensure Ukraine’s voice is represented in the dialogue.
Excerpts from Menafn
