European leaders are intensifying calls for Ukraine's inclusion in upcoming talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, as diplomatic efforts to resolve the three-year conflict gain urgency. The summit, set for Friday in Alaska, has sparked debates over Kyiv's participation, with EU foreign ministers scheduled to discuss the matter in a virtual meeting Monday alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga.
U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker hinted Sunday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy might attend the high-stakes meeting, though the White House has yet to confirm. Zelenskyy has engaged in a flurry of calls with leaders from Germany, France, the UK, and Nordic-Baltic nations, all stressing that no peace deal should proceed without Ukraine's direct involvement.
The push comes amid renewed battlefield dynamics: Ukraine's military reported reclaiming a village in the Sumy region, a strategic area near the northern frontline. Meanwhile, Moscow continues to demand Kyiv withdraw forces from contested regions, adopt neutrality, and abandon aspirations to join NATO—conditions Ukraine has repeatedly rejected.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that any resolution must involve both Ukraine and European powers, reflecting growing concerns over unilateral decisions. As global markets watch for signs of stability, the outcome could reshape Eastern Europe's security landscape and influence international energy and trade flows.
