Zelensky urges US and EU unity to stand against Russia and secure Ukraine

Zelensky attended the EU leaders' meeting as a guest and stressed the importance of a strong relationship between the US, the EU, and all European countries.

"We need the unity between the United States, Europe, and all European nations," Zelensky said. "It’s crucial for our survival and peace." He also highlighted that only by working together could the US and Europe stop Russian President Vladimir Putin and protect Ukraine.

Zelensky mentioned that he plans to discuss the future of US support with President-elect Donald Trump once he takes office again. He admitted that Ukraine would face a challenging situation if it had to continue without US backing.

As the war enters its fourth year, Ukraine faces increasing pressure from Russian forces, particularly in the east of the country. Some worry that Trump, who has expressed skepticism about NATO, might push Ukraine into peace talks with Russia that could hurt Kyiv's position.

Despite the difficulties, EU leaders have remained firm in their support of Ukraine. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said, “The killing must stop. We need to reach a place where peace is possible.” He added that military aid to Ukraine would continue, but any decisions about the conflict should not be made without Ukraine’s agreement.

Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal, whose country borders Russia, agreed. “For lasting peace, Ukraine must be in a strong position,” he said. "That means providing Ukraine with assistance, money, weapons, and air defense systems."

Top EU diplomat Kaja Kallas warned that pushing for peace talks too soon would hurt Ukraine. She said that other countries are watching closely, so the EU must act with strength and unity.

António Costa, who is chairing the summit as the new European Council President, said the EU would work to ensure a "just and lasting peace." Costa emphasized that this war was not just about Ukraine or Europe but about defending international law. He insisted that Russia's invasion must be defeated.

The EU leaders are likely to promise more military aid to Ukraine, such as air defense systems, ammunition, and missiles. They will also continue providing training and equipment for Ukraine’s armed forces.

The EU’s message to Trump will be clear: any peace talks must involve Ukraine’s government, and no peace settlement should be made without their approval. EU leaders stress that they will remain committed to helping Ukraine for as long as necessary.

Zelensky’s visit comes just days after his meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and other European leaders. They discussed providing Ukraine with more immediate military support and how to ensure Ukraine's security after the war ends.

Zelensky is also concerned about Trump’s stance on the war. The US president-elect has often called for a swift end to the war. Just a few days ago, Trump suggested that Zelensky should be ready to negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin, although he did not clarify whether this would involve Ukraine giving up any of its land.

Currently, Russian forces control nearly a fifth of Ukraine’s territory and are continuing to advance in the eastern part of the country.

EU leaders agree that Russia must not prevail. They are firm in their belief that no decisions regarding Ukraine’s future should be made without Ukraine’s input. This is reflected in the EU draft conclusions for the summit, which say that “Russia must not win” and “Ukraine must be involved in all discussions about its future.”

The EU’s support for Ukraine comes as the bloc also deals with other important issues, such as the possible impact of Trump’s trade policies. The US has already imposed tariffs on countries like Canada, Mexico, and China, and it is expected that the EU will also face tariffs. 

In response, EU officials are considering offering to buy more American products, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) or arms, to improve relations with the US.

Meanwhile, EU leaders will also discuss the broader challenges of international relations, such as the US-China trade conflict and the future of the EU-UK relationship. The UK, a key security ally, is seeking to reset its ties with the EU after Brexit.

The EU remains committed to supporting Ukraine, but it is clear that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine will require continued unity between the US and the EU. 

Both regions must work together to ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and avoid any peace deals that could harm the country’s future. Zelensky's call for cooperation and a strong stance against Russia is crucial as the war continues.