UKRAINE — In the aftermath of a heated exchange between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, European leaders quickly rallied in support of Ukraine, emphasizing their commitment to the country’s sovereignty and its struggle against Russian aggression.
Strengthening European Resolve for Ukraine
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared, “Nobody wants peace more than the citizens of Ukraine,” reinforcing that Ukraine can “rely on” Europe’s unwavering support.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stressed the urgency of convening a meeting between the US, European states, and other allies. She warned, “Any division of the West makes us all weaker and favors those who would like to see the decline of our civilization.”
Czech President Petr Pavel and Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics also echoed their firm support. Rinkevics stated, “Ukraine is a victim of Russian aggression. It fights the war with the help of many friends and partners.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Ukraine’s resilience, declaring, “Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people.”
Polish Premier Donald Tusk emphasized, “Dear Zelenskyy, dear Ukrainian friends, you are not alone,” while former EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell sharply criticized the US exchange, saying, “Trump and (US Vice President JD Vance) have put on a disgraceful show. I am ashamed of that behavior. The US deserves something better.”
Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp affirmed that the Netherlands would continue its support, declaring, “Whatever it takes, for as long as it takes.” Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stressed that Ukraine’s fight is not just for its own freedom, but for the entire continent’s.
A broader coalition of European leaders, including German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Norwegian Premier Jonas Gahr Støre, and Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, reiterated their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Diverse European Responses Highlight Unity Amid Tensions
Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris stated, “Ukraine is not to blame for this war brought about by Russia’s illegal invasion,” while the Austrian Foreign Ministry emphasized, “Russia is the aggressor, and we share Ukraine’s commitment to a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.”
Prime Minister of Luxembourg Luc Frieden and Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon reaffirmed the need for a “rules-based international order.” Icelandic Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrin and Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen also voiced their continued backing.
Portuguese Premier Lula Montenegro reaffirmed that Ukraine can always count on Portugal, while Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen proudly declared that her country stands with Ukraine. Croatian Premier Andrej Plenkovic underscored the belief in “a peace that means sovereignty, territorial integrity, and a secure Europe.”
The Divergence of Support from Hungary
On the other hand, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban took a contrasting stance, praising Trump for standing “bravely for peace,” even if it “was difficult for many to digest.” He added, “Strong men make peace, weak men make war.”
A Global Call for Unity
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson also called for unity, urging both Ukraine and the US to remember they are on the same side, and suggested that “the best way forward now is for the minerals deal to be signed as soon as possible,” emphasizing that a path to peace still exists.
As Europe unites in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, the international community remains divided over the appropriate approach to achieving peace amidst the ongoing conflict.
(Source:Anadolu/PNA) ia/mnm
