High-Stakes Talks: Europe and Ukraine Tense Ahead of Trump-Putin Summit

Leaders from Europe and Ukraine will meet virtually with President Trump before his summit with Russia's Vladimir Putin. Concerns continue over a potential unfavorable agreement for Ukraine. European leaders aim to ensure fair terms, underscoring the importance of involving Ukraine in any negotiation.

With anticipation building, European and Ukrainian leaders will engage in a crucial virtual dialogue with U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday. This meeting aims to reinforce the importance of upholding Ukraine's interests ahead of Trump's highly publicized summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, set to take place in Alaska on Friday.

The diplomatic scene has shifted recently, with Trump agreeing to the first U.S.-Russia summit since 2021. This decision follows his frustration over Putin's hesitance against U.S. peace initiatives. While significant progress has been claimed by the U.S. envoy, Trump has articulated a controversial stance that both Ukraine and Russia may need to cede territory to secure peace.

This impending summit has sparked apprehension among European leaders, who fear a potential agreement that could sideline Ukraine's security interests. To mitigate these concerns, a video conference will see Trump, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, and key European figures engaging in a dialogue aimed at ensuring Ukraine's voice is not diminished in these high-stakes negotiations.

(With inputs from agencies.)