Europe, Ukraine Seek Role in Trump-Putin Talks on Ukrainian Territory

Ahead of the upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, European and Ukrainian leaders are emphasizing that Ukraine must be involved in any negotiations concerning its future. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski and Ukrainian officials insist that peace talks excluding Kyiv and the European Union cannot yield a just resolution, rejecting any territorial concessions to Russia. Despite Trump's suggestion of potential land swaps, Ukraine's constitution bars ceding territory, and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy remains firm against such compromises. European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have organized preparatory talks involving Trump, European officials, and Zelenskyy to coordinate positions and apply pressure on Russia. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stressed that peace must come through strength and that negotiations require a complete ceasefire and respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Trump has indicated he will press Putin for territory return and brief Ukraine and European leaders if a fair deal emerges, while Kyiv warns that decisions made without its participation are invalid.