- The UK and France are leading efforts to form a ‘Europe Plus’ coalition to protect Ukraine.
- Trump demands Zelensky apologize and commit to peace before further U.S. backing.
- Russia accuses Zelensky of prolonging the war, while some U.S. Republicans push for his resignation.
The UK and France are working to establish a ‘Europe Plus’ coalition, aiming to support Ukraine independently of the U.S. in case of a peace deal. Canada and Turkey are reportedly in discussions to join, but no concrete agreement has been finalized.
Meanwhile, tensions between Zelensky and the U.S. government have escalated, with some Republicans calling for his resignation. Zelensky has strongly rejected these demands, stating he will only step down if Ukraine secures NATO membership.
Ukraine’s Future: European Coalition vs. U.S. Uncertainty
The ‘Europe Plus’ initiative signals a shift in European defense policy, as nations prepare to act independently of Washington’s leadership. With Trump’s reluctance to back European troops and his insistence on a minerals deal before further aid, Europe may need to take the lead in shaping Ukraine’s security framework. If the coalition materializes, it could reshape military dynamics in Eastern Europe.
Zelensky’s meeting with Trump was marked by sharp exchanges, with Trump accusing him of risking “World War Three” and JD Vance criticizing his approach. Nigel Farage has also weighed in, suggesting Zelensky miscalculated in his handling of U.S. diplomacy. The White House meeting underscored the growing divide between Ukraine and key figures in the U.S. government.
Russia has seized on the situation, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claiming Zelensky does not want peace and suggesting Europe should pressure him into negotiations. The longer the war drags on, the more it benefits Russia, as its economy has adapted to wartime conditions while Ukraine remains reliant on Western support. This dynamic adds urgency to Europe’s search for an independent security solution.
Amid the political maneuvering, uncertainty looms over Ukraine’s path forward. Macron’s proposed one-month truce in the air and at sea suggests some European leaders are exploring de-escalation, but London has distanced itself from the plan. Without a unified strategy, Ukraine risks being caught in the middle of shifting global alliances.
The ‘Europe Plus’ coalition could mark a turning point in how Ukraine’s security is managed, but political divisions between Western allies remain a key challenge. With U.S. support uncertain, European leaders must decide whether they are ready to take responsibility for enforcing a peace settlement.
“Wars either end with a deal or they end in annihilation.” – Nigel Farage
