Ukraine, Allies Oppose Trump's Excluded Peace Deal Efforts

Ukraine and its European allies have expressed strong opposition to any peace negotiations with Russia that do not include their participation, particularly in light of U.S. President Donald Trump's recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders have condemned Trump's apparent willingness to make concessions to Russia, emphasizing that any agreement affecting Ukraine must involve Ukrainian input. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth defended Trump's approach, stating that it is not a betrayal of Ukraine but a necessary step towards peace, while also acknowledging the complexities involved. European officials, including Germany's defense minister, criticized the U.S. for making concessions before negotiations have even begun. Ukrainian troops on the front line fear being