The meeting between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and US Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg in Brussels reflects the EU’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine. Von der Leyen emphasized that any peace resolution must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, which is central to the EU’s stance on the conflict.
This meeting occurred as the US and Russian top diplomats were discussing potential peace efforts in Riyadh, but notably without direct Ukrainian or EU involvement. The absence of Ukraine in these talks has raised concerns, particularly in light of reports that the Trump administration has suggested peace terms that might undermine Ukraine’s territorial integrity and NATO aspirations, which would be a major shift in US policy.
European leaders like von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa reaffirmed that any peace agreement must be comprehensive and secure Ukraine’s long-term peace and security, while also ensuring stability for Europe as a whole.
This tension highlights the complexity of the peace process, with key players (including the EU and Ukraine) seeking to ensure their interests are safeguarded, especially in negotiations with Russia. It also underscores the broader geopolitical dynamics at play, including the role of NATO and the US’s position.
