Sir Keir Starmer and other European leaders have stressed that Ukraine’s sovereignty is “non-negotiable” in a joint statement issued in the wake of Donald Trump’s meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Friday. While the Coalition of the Willing welcomed Trump’s peace efforts, they warned that “It will be up to Ukraine to make decisions on its territory”.
The statement said: “Early this morning, President Trump debriefed us and President Zelenskyy following his meeting with the Russian President in Alaska on 15 August 2025.”
“Leaders welcomed President Trump’s efforts to stop the killing in Ukraine, end Russia’s war of aggression, and achieve just and lasting peace. As President Trump said ‘there’s no deal until there’s a deal’. As envisioned by President Trump, the next step must now be further talks including President Zelensky, whom he will meet soon.” The statement continued: “We are also ready to work with President Trump and President Zelensky towards a trilateral summit with European support.”
The statement continued: “We welcome President Trump’s statement that the US is prepared to give security guarantees. The Coalition of the Willing is ready to play an active role.”
“No limitations should be placed on Ukraine’s armed forces or on its cooperation with third countries. Russia cannot have a veto against Ukraine‘s pathway to EU and NATO.”
“It will be up to Ukraine to make decisions on its territory. International borders must not be changed by force.”
Support for Ukraine would continue, the European leaders stressed.
They added: “We are determined to do more to keep Ukraine strong in order to achieve an end to the fighting and a just and lasting peace.”
“As long as the killing in Ukraine continues, we stand ready to uphold the pressure on Russia.”
“We will continue to strengthen sanctions and wider economic measures to put pressure on Russia’s war economy until there is a just and lasting peace.”
“Ukraine can count on our unwavering solidarity as we work towards a peace that safeguards Ukraine’s and Europe’s vital security interests.”
The joint statement, signed by President von der Leyen, President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Starmer, President Stubb, Prime Minister Tusk, and President Costa, represents a unified European position following the Alaska summit.
It emphasises continued support for Ukraine, a firm stance against Russian aggression, and the readiness of Europe and its partners to participate in trilateral talks to ensure a just and lasting peace.
Mr Zelensky will travel to Washington on Monday for talks with Mr Trump.
