European Leaders Cite 'Critical Moment' for Ukraine After Trump Call

Thu Dec 11 2025 01:22:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Following a call with President Trump, European leaders emphasize the urgency to aid Ukraine and continue peace negotiations amid rising tensions.

European leaders, including the UK Prime Minister and French and German heads of state, stressed that the ongoing efforts for a US-led peace plan are at a crucial juncture. After a recent conversation with President Trump, who criticized their leadership, they acknowledged the need for 'intensive work' as Ukraine's integrity and future security hang in the balance. Concurrently, Ukrainian President Zelensky faces pressure regarding peace terms, pressing allies for robust guarantees against future aggression.

European leaders say intensive work will continue in the coming days on a US-led plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war, after a joint phone call with President Donald Trump.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated they agreed that this was a critical moment for Ukraine and for shared security across the Euro-Atlantic region.

A White House official confirmed the call took place but did not provide details. This occurred just after Trump called European leaders weak, implying that the US may lessen its support for Ukraine.

In a wide-ranging interview, Trump also claimed Ukraine was using the war to sidetrack elections, to which President Volodymyr Zelensky responded that he was ready to hold elections.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has controlled about 20% of Ukraine's territory since the invasion launched in February 2022.

The three European leaders issued identical statements indicating discussions about ongoing US-led peace talks aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace for Ukraine. They acknowledged that intensive work on the peace plan is ongoing.

Zelensky has hinted at delivering a 20-point document on the peace process to the US soon, following extensive collaboration with Trump’s team and European partners.

The original US draft peace plan was criticized for favoring Russia, prompting Ukraine to negotiate modifications regarding territorial integrity and security guarantees.

Zelensky faces increasing pressure from Trump for a peace agreement that may involve territorial concessions to Russia, which he continually refuses, advocating instead for a ceasefire and strong security assurances.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin echoed Trump’s assertions, aligning their perspectives, particularly regarding territorial disputes and NATO membership.