Brussels, Belgium — August 17, 2025 | European leaders have thrown their weight behind U.S. President Donald Trump’s diplomatic initiative aimed at brokering a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, signaling a renewed global push to end the protracted conflict.
The support follows Friday’s high-profile meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, widely described as one of the most consequential diplomatic engagements since the war erupted. Sources say the talks centered on halting hostilities, reducing military tensions, and creating a framework for structured peace negotiations.
Top European Union leaders, including German Chancellor Anke Hofmann, French President Emmanuel Durand, and Italian Prime Minister Luca Moretti, welcomed the move, stressing that genuine progress would save lives and restore stability to Europe’s security and economic landscape.
Chancellor Hofmann declared that Europe “fully supports genuine steps towards peace,” urging Moscow and Kyiv to commit beyond symbolic gestures. President Durand echoed the call, emphasizing the need for a “comprehensive framework that safeguards Ukraine’s sovereignty while addressing Russia’s security concerns.”
Analysts say Europe’s endorsement underscores the urgency of ending the war and highlights Washington’s central role in shaping outcomes. However, skepticism lingers in parts of Eastern Europe, where leaders insist that sanctions against Moscow must remain in force until measurable progress is achieved.
Although no ceasefire has been formally announced, diplomats note that the Alaska talks represent a pivotal moment in international efforts to resolve the conflict, which has killed thousands and disrupted energy supplies across Europe.