European leaders are taking a strong stance against the US efforts to mediate an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine, with France announcing a meeting of continental leaders and Baltic countries calling for new steps to strengthen Kyiv’s hand in any future talks. Finland’s President Alexander Stubb called for “maximum pressure on Russia” through sanctions and asset freezes, while French President Emmanuel Macron is rallying European leaders for an emergency meeting to discuss the situation.
The US has been pushing for a quick resolution to the conflict, with President Donald Trump saying he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin soon to negotiate a peace deal. However, European officials are skeptical of the US approach and want to ensure that Ukraine’s interests are represented in any negotiations. “Don’t underestimate Trump as a negotiator,” Stubb said. “Right now, the ball is in our court here in Europe. We need to convince the Americans where’s the value added, and then get back into the table.”
The three-day Munich conference saw top envoys from around the world, including Japan and South Korea, but also raised concerns about the US approach. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that Europe has fewer brigades than Russia and that the risk of Russia occupying Europe is 100%. The European Commission has proposed a temporary waiver of EU budgetary rules to allow for extra defense spending.
As tensions remain high, European leaders are taking steps to assert their position and protect Ukraine’s interests. With Macron hosting an informal meeting with European leaders on Monday, it remains to be seen whether the US approach will prevail or if Europe will take a more assertive stance.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/finnish-leader-urges-europe-firm-ukraines-hand-us-118871499