On December 18, 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a significant meeting in Brussels with key European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The primary focus of the discussions was to outline security guarantees for Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.
Zelensky emphasized the necessity of a robust response to ensure a lasting peace, referencing the need for collective strength from Europe and the United States to compel Russia towards a genuine ceasefire. The meeting lasted until the early hours of December 19, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
During the discussions, leaders addressed the importance of developing a framework for Ukraine's protection against future threats. The outcomes of this meeting are expected to influence international relations significantly, particularly in the context of European security and cooperation with NATO allies.
The dialogue reflects a broader commitment among European nations to support Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity as the conflict continues to evolve.