The EU has announced the composition of its delegation to attend the August 18 meeting of Ukrainian and U.S. presidents in Washington, featuring key European leaders and a surprise inclusion of Finland’s President Alexander Stubb, deemed a “favorite” of former President Donald Trump.
The Delegation to Washington
The confirmed lineup consists of EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Trump’s “Favorite” in the Spotlight
Politico, citing sources, said the EU plans to bring Finland’s President Stubb—a “favorite” of former President Donald Trump—to Washington to smooth potential frictions between Trump and Zelenski and persuade the U.S. president to involve Europe in further negotiations. The same sources noted that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, also close to Trump, might visit Washington. The EU and Ukraine view the summit as pivotal to ensuring Trump does not acquiesce to Russian demands for Ukraine’s territory, which Moscow only holds partially.
European Leaders Convene on Ukraine
On Sunday, 17 August at 15:00, European leaders gathered via video conference on Ukraine ahead of Zelenski’s U.S. visit. The meeting, led by French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, was announced by French authorities.
Trilateral Summit with Trump, Zelenski, and Putin — Dates?
Axios reports that the Trump‑Zelenski‑Putin trialogue could take place on Friday, 22 August. President Zelenski accepted the proposal, and details will be discussed on Monday, 18 August in Washington.
Kaynaklar: Politico, IAR
