World leaders have convened in Kyiv today to mark the third anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, demonstrating their continued support as the United States signals potential shifts in its policy.

This milestone arrives at a precarious time for Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelensky navigates a shifting international landscape, influenced by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s evolving stance on Russia and Ukraine. Trump recently sparked controversy by labeling Zelensky ‘a dictator without elections,’ despite Ukraine’s voting process being suspended under martial law due to the ongoing war.

In response, Zelensky indicated that he would be willing to step down if it meant securing peace, suggesting his resignation could be exchanged for Ukraine’s entry into NATO or alternative security guarantees.

Europe Rallies Behind Ukraine

Despite Washington’s uncertain stance, Ukraine’s allies have reaffirmed their commitment to the country. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau are among the prominent figures in Kyiv today, participating in emergency discussions and expressing solidarity.

European Council President Antonio Costa and the leaders of Northern European nations and Spain also joined them, receiving a warm welcome from Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Zelensky’s Chief of Staff Andrii Yermak.

Von der Leyen underscored Ukraine’s deep ties with Europe, stating, “Europe is in Kyiv because Ukraine is in Europe. In this fight for survival, it is not only the destiny of Ukraine that is at stake. It’s Europe’s destiny.”

Meanwhile, UK opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer reaffirmed Britain’s unwavering support for Ukraine, writing on X, “Three years on from Putin’s barbaric full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we face a once-in-a-generation moment for our collective security and values. We continue to stand with Ukraine for a just and lasting peace.”

Europe’s Strategic Response to US Shifts

European leaders are taking proactive measures to ensure Ukraine remains central to any peace negotiations. European Council President Antonio Costa announced an emergency EU summit on March 6, where Ukraine will dominate the agenda.

“We are living in a defining moment for Ukraine and European security,” Costa declared on social media, signaling Europe’s determination to play a pivotal role in shaping the war’s outcome.

Trump’s Approach and Russia’s Diplomatic Maneuvers

Trump has pledged to end the war swiftly, but his methods have raised concerns among Ukraine’s allies. Russia’s Foreign Ministry confirmed on Saturday that preparations are underway for a face-to-face meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, U.S. officials revealed plans to re-establish diplomatic relations and resume economic cooperation with Moscow.

On Sunday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov announced that bilateral discussions between Moscow and Washington would continue at the end of next week, with significant ongoing communication between the two governments.

EU Leaders Reject a US-Russia Peace Deal Without Ukraine

Fearing that Trump’s approach could sideline Ukraine and lead to an unfavorable settlement, European leaders have strongly asserted their involvement in any peace discussions. EU’s top diplomat Kaja Kallas emphasized, “You can discuss whatever you want with Putin. But if it comes to Europe or Ukraine, then Ukraine and Europe also have to agree to this deal.”

Kallas, who is set to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on Tuesday, voiced concerns about the Trump administration’s narrative favoring Russia. “If you look at the messages coming from the United States, the Russian perspective is strongly represented,” she noted.

She also countered Trump’s remarks on Zelensky, highlighting, “Putin hasn’t had elections, or Russia hasn’t had elections, in 25 years.” Ukraine’s laws prohibit elections under martial law, with Zelensky recently reaffirming that once martial law is lifted, elections will be held to allow citizens to choose their leaders.

As global leaders deliberate Ukraine’s future, the country remains at the heart of geopolitical tensions, with its allies determined to ensure that any peace negotiations prioritize Ukrainian sovereignty and security.

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