KYIV, Ukraine — European nations are uniting in support of Ukraine, emphasizing that any resolution to the ongoing conflict must involve Kyiv. This comes ahead of a scheduled meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska next Friday. Trump stated that the meeting will focus on efforts to end the war, which has now entered its fourth year. In a post on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to European allies, saying, "The end of the war must be fair, and I am grateful to everyone who stands with Ukraine and our people."

The upcoming Trump-Putin meeting has raised concerns among European leaders. A statement released Saturday by top officials from the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Finland, and the UK highlighted the need for a "just and lasting peace" for Ukraine, which includes strong security guarantees. The statement asserted, "Ukraine has the freedom of choice over its own destiny. Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities."

Concerns have intensified following reports that Trump is open to discussing a peace deal that might involve "some swapping of territories," which could pressure Ukraine into conceding land or limiting its sovereignty. A White House official, who requested anonymity, indicated that while Trump is willing to meet with both Putin and Zelenskyy, the initial meeting will be bilateral, as requested by Putin.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with European and Ukrainian officials over the weekend to discuss strategies for ending the conflict. Trump has previously stated he would meet with Putin regardless of whether the Russian leader agrees to meet with Zelenskyy. The outcome of this meeting could be significant, as the war has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, and both sides remain far apart on peace terms.

The European leaders' statement emphasized that the path to peace cannot be determined without Ukraine's involvement. They reiterated their commitment to the principle that international borders should not be altered by force. U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., remarked on NBC’s "Meet the Press" that a successful deal would prevent Russia from feeling emboldened to redraw borders by force. He expressed hope that Zelenskyy would be included in the discussions, stating, "I have every confidence in the world that (President Trump) is going to go to meet Putin from a position of strength."

Despite a month-long U.S.-led effort to achieve a truce, progress has been limited. While Kyiv has shown willingness to negotiate, the Kremlin continues to demand terms that are more favorable to Russia. Trump has also set a deadline for imposing additional sanctions on Russia if it does not move toward a settlement. The Kremlin has reiterated its demands for Ukraine to cede territory, abandon its NATO aspirations, and accept military limitations in exchange for a withdrawal of Russian troops.

Zelenskyy has firmly rejected the idea of ceding territory, stating, "Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier." He emphasized that Ukraine will not reward Russia for its actions. Ukrainian officials have indicated a willingness to accept a peace deal that acknowledges their inability to regain lost territories militarily, but Zelenskyy insists that formally giving up land is not an option.

As the Trump-Putin meeting approaches, European leaders are preparing intensively. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted that he has been advocating for tougher sanctions against Russia, asserting that "Putin only acts under pressure." Mikhail Kasyanov, a former Russian prime minister, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the Kremlin would be more open to serious negotiations if sanctions further strain its economy.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised the U.S. for increasing military support to Ukraine and imposing sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil. He stated, "Next Friday will be important because it will be about testing Putin — how serious he is — on bringing this terrible war to an end."

As diplomatic efforts continue, the situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for a critical week ahead.