Germany Organizes Virtual Meeting with Trump, Zelenskyy, and European Leaders Ahead of U.S.-Russia Summit

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has invited U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and several European leaders to a virtual meeting scheduled for Wednesday. The discussions will focus on the current situation in Ukraine, particularly in light of the planned summit between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin later this week.

The German chancellery stated that the talks aim to explore further options for action to exert pressure on Russia, as well as preparations for possible peace negotiations, including issues related to territorial claims and security. European and Ukrainian leaders have expressed concerns about being excluded from the upcoming U.S.-Russia summit in Alaska, emphasizing that any decisions regarding Ukraine should involve its participation.

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas underscored the importance of adhering to international law, stating that all temporarily occupied territories belong to Ukraine. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that state borders cannot be changed by force and that any land swaps or peace terms must be agreed upon with Ukraine's participation.

The virtual meeting is expected to include leaders from France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland, Finland, as well as EU and NATO officials. The objective is to coordinate a unified stance and ensure that Ukraine is not compelled to make undue concessions, particularly concerning its territorial integrity.