By Oshadhi Gimesha, Lead Journalist | Reviewed and approved by Editor-in-Chief
MUNICH — The United States has reached out to its European allies to gauge their needs to participate in long-term security guarantees for Ukraine, according to a diplomatic document obtained by Reuters. The move comes as President Donald Trump’s abrupt call for peace talks with Russia rattles European leaders and raises questions about America’s commitment to Ukraine’s defence.
The Diplomatic Push
The U.S. document, sent last week, outlines six key points and questions aimed at shaping a collective security framework for Ukraine. Among the queries:
- What European countries are willing to contribute troops or resources?
- What support would they need from the U.S. to participate effectively?
- How large should a European-led force in Ukraine be, and where would it operate?
The document also probes Europe’s readiness to enforce sanctions on Russia and bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities to strengthen its negotiating position.
Broader Context
- Trump’s Unilateral Move:
- Trump’s surprise call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, bypassing European allies and Ukraine, has sparked fears of a U.S.-Russia deal that sidelines Kyiv.
- European leaders, including those from Britain and Germany, will meet in Paris on Monday to coordinate their response.
- European Reliance on U.S. Backing:
- Many European governments have made clear they cannot provide security guarantees without U.S. support.
- The document’s focus on European needs signals a shift toward shared responsibility but also highlights Europe’s dependence on American leadership.
- NATO’s Role:
- While NATO remains the cornerstone of European defence, the U.S. push for a European-led force in Ukraine suggests a potential rebalancing of transatlantic security responsibilities.
Why This Matters
- For Ukraine:
- Security guarantees could deter future Russian aggression and provide a framework for post-war stability.
- However, Kyiv remains wary of any peace deal negotiated without its input.
- For Europe:
- The U.S. request underscores Europe’s need to step up its defence capabilities and reduce reliance on American support.
- It also raises questions about how far European nations are willing to go, including deploying troops to Ukraine.
- For the U.S.:
- The move reflects Trump’s transactional approach to foreign policy, prioritizing burden-sharing over unilateral commitments.
- It also signals a potential shift in U.S. strategy, with greater emphasis on European leadership in regional conflicts.
What’s Next
- Paris Summit:
- European leaders will convene in Paris on Monday to discuss their response to the U.S. document and coordinate their stance on Ukraine.
- NATO Discussions:
- The alliance is likely to address the U.S. proposal at its next meeting, balancing European concerns with the need for collective action.
- Peace Talks:
- Trump’s push for immediate negotiations with Russia could accelerate efforts to end the war, but risks sidelining Ukraine and its European allies.
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