Two days before a planned US-Russia summit on Ukraine in Alaska, European leaders have warned that Ukraine’s borders must not be altered through military force.
In a joint statement backed by 26 of the 27 EU leaders, they affirmed that Ukrainians should decide their own political future and that any settlement must respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban did not sign the statement, continuing his approach of maintaining closer ties with Moscow and opposing some EU measures in support of Kyiv.
He argued the EU was setting terms for a meeting it was not attending and called for a separate EU-Russia summit.
The statement reflects deep concern across Europe about Moscow’s ongoing occupation of Ukrainian territory. Countries near Russia, along with those with memories of Soviet control, view the situation as a direct security risk.
Sweden and Finland have joined NATO, Baltic states have reinstated conscription, and Poland is investing heavily in border defences.
US President Donald Trump has suggested a peace plan involving territorial swaps that could see Russia take full control of Donbas and keep Crimea while giving up parts of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.
NATO’s Secretary General has said such changes should not be formally recognised under international law.
European leaders have pledged continued military support for Ukraine and reaffirmed their backing for its path toward EU membership.
Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are expected to meet in Alaska on Friday, following EU talks with Trump on Wednesday.