European leaders met in Berlin on Monday and released a statement affirming support for a lasting Ukraine peace.
Significant Progress
Leaders welcomed the progress made by President Trump in securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. They praised the strong convergence among the U.S., Ukraine and Europe, noting that ensuring Ukraine’s security, sovereignty and prosperity is integral to wider Euro‑Atlantic security.
The statement was signed by leaders including Donald Tusk, Friedrich Merz, Alexander Stubb, Emmanuel Macron, Antonio Costa, Ursula von der Leyen, Ulf Kristersson, Mette Frederiksen, Giorgia Meloni, Dick Schoof, Jonas Gahr Støre and Keir Starmer.
Multinational Armed Forces
The communiqué outlined that Ukraine’s armed forces should number 800,000 in peace. It also mentioned a European‑led multinational force built from contributions of willing states and supported by the United States.
This force would aid Ukraine’s military rebuilding, protect its airspace and shore security, and support operations on Ukrainian territory.
Commitment to Take Action
Leaders cited a U.S.‑led monitoring and verification mechanism for ceasefire, involving the international community, and a legally binding commitment—subject to national procedures—to restore peace and security if another armed attack occurs.
Possible measures include armed forces, intelligence and logistics support, as well as economic and diplomatic actions.
International Borders Cannot Be Changed by Force
The leaders expressed support for President Zelensky and agreed to back any decisions he makes regarding Ukraine’s domestic matters.
They affirmed that international borders must not be altered by force and that decisions about territory belong to the Ukrainian people once solid security guarantees are in place.
Increasing Pressure on Russia
Leaders stressed that Russia must now show readiness to pursue a durable peace by accepting President Trump’s peace plan or by ceasing hostilities.
They agreed to further increase pressure on Russia to compel Moscow to engage in serious negotiations.
Peace Talks Continue in Berlin; EU Summit in Brussels
Ukrainian‑American talks on Ukraine’s peace continued in Berlin on Sunday and Monday. On Thursday (18 Dec) a European summit in Brussels focused on frozen Russian assets among other topics.
