**European Leaders Encourage Trump to Stand Firm Against Putin Before Key Summit**

European leaders are finding a glimmer of hope after holding a virtual conversation with former President Donald Trump, who is preparing for a crucial summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The meeting aimed to discuss potential steps toward achieving a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. During the call, Trump reassured leaders from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Finland, and Poland, as well as NATO and EU officials, that he values Ukraine's role in any territorial discussions, a sentiment echoed by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Leaders noted that although Trump rated the meeting positively, they remain wary of the possibility that he might be inclined to make unfair concessions to Putin. Poland's Donald Tusk emphasized the significance of ensuring that Trump sees Russia as untrustworthy, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reiterated the necessity of including Ukraine in any follow-up discussions. With previous talks hinting at “land-swapping” between Kyiv and Moscow, tensions are high, as Ukraine remains anxious about losing pivotal territories.

Historical demands from Russia, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from occupied regions, have added to the urgency of the situation. While Zelensky remains skeptical about Russia's intentions, European leaders have expressed their commitment to enhance security guarantees for Ukraine, hinting at a collaborative defense strategy. Despite the ongoing pressure from Russian assaults, the upcoming summit remains pivotal, with hopes that diplomacy could pave the way for peace amidst a harrowing military landscape.

With Trump acknowledging the difficulty of securing an agreement with Putin, all eyes remain on their meeting, as the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance.