Brussels 12.08.2025 “We, the Leaders of the European Union, welcome the efforts of President Trump towards ending Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and achieving a just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine” reads the EU statement, issued ahead of Alaska talks between Presidents Trump and Putin. Trump claimed that he could know within two minutes of meeting Putin whether progress was possible.

The EU welcomes @POTUS effort for a just & lasting peace in Ukraine.

One respecting international law, sovereignty & territorial integrity.

Negotiations require a ceasefire or a reduction of hostilities.

The EU will continue to support Ukraine’s right to decide its own future.

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) August 12, 2025

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“A just and lasting peace that brings stability and security must respect international law, including the principles of independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and that international borders must not be changed by force.

“The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future. The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine. Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities.

“Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has wider implications for European and international security. We share the conviction that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine’s and Europe’s vital security interests.

“The European Union, in coordination with the US and other like-minded partners, will continue to provide political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine as Ukraine is exercising its inherent right of self-defence. It will also continue to uphold and impose restrictive measures against the Russian Federation.

“A Ukraine capable of defending itself effectively is an integral part of any future security guarantees. The European Union and Member States are ready to further contribute to security guarantees based on their respective competences and capabilities, in line with international law, and in full respect of the security and defence policy of certain Member States and taking into account the security and defence interests of all Member States.

“The European Union underlines the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny and will continue supporting Ukraine on its path towards EU membership”.

During press-conference in the White House, Trump said he will try to get some territory back for Ukraine during the Alaska Summit.

“Russia’s occupied a big portion of Ukraine. They occupied prime territory. We’re going to try to get some of that territory back for Ukraine,” he told a news conference at the White House.

Trump and Putin are due to hold talks in Alaska at the end of the week. Trump claimed that he could know within two minutes of meeting Putin whether progress was possible.

Trump said Friday would be a “feel-out meeting” aimed at urging Putin to end the war – suggesting he may view the Summit as just an initial encounter.