Zelensky's Potential Attendance at Trump-Putin Summit Raises Questions for Europe

With the forthcoming Trump-Putin summit in Alaska looming, the absence of Ukraine and Europe sparks concern over territorial compromises.

In a highly anticipated bilateral summit, U.S. President Donald Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska this Friday to address the ongoing war in Ukraine. As discussions about potential territorial concessions approach, concerns arise regarding Ukraine's exclusion and the implications for European borders.

Former UK Foreign Office chief, Lord Simon McDonald, voiced caution, stating, “Brace ourselves for some pretty outrageous Russian demands.” He predicts a theatrical negotiation style from Putin, who may ask for concessions few would consider granting—except perhaps Donald Trump.

Zelensky’s firm stance against land concessions raises stakes. The Ukrainian President has made it clear that freezing the conflict along current front lines is not an option, cautioning that such moves would only embolden the Russian military, which has been engaged in warfare for over three years.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas remarked on the potential success of the meeting, arguing that if President Zelensky is present, it marks a significant victory. However, the uncertainty surrounding his attendance reflects broader European anxieties, as both Kyiv and Brussels seek clarity on how to counter Russian proposals without direct involvement in talks.

Trump himself has suggested the possibility of Zelensky attending, indicating a willingness to engage Ukraine in discussions. However, both Europe and Ukraine prefer this possibility to transition from a "maybe" to a "yes." Moreover, the one-on-one format of the meeting—a Kremlin proposal approved by the White House—has further fueled European apprehensions.

Amidst the backdrop of the ongoing conflict, European political activity has surged. Kallas convened a virtual meeting of foreign ministers who have insisted on an unconditional ceasefire as a precondition for negotiations. A new round of sanctions against Moscow has also been announced. Kallas emphasized that an aggressor should not be rewarded with territorial gains, warning that such concessions could provoke further global aggression.

With Trump taking the lead on these peace talks, Europe finds itself in a challenging position. Despite strengthened transatlantic ties and increased military spending, Poland’s foreign minister, Radoslaw Sikorski, stresses that European sovereignty is at stake, declaring, “We appreciate Trump’s efforts but we’ll be taking our own decisions in Europe too.” Merkel aims to facilitate a consultation involving both Zelensky and Trump next week, yet skepticism remains about a late invitation for central European figures.

As UK Foreign Office's McDonald posits, the awaited meeting may represent a milestone, but he underscores, “The end will be as protracted as the war has been long.”