On December 19, 2024, EU leaders convened in Brussels to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly in light of the upcoming presidency of Donald Trump in the United States. The meeting aimed to strategize on how to empower Ukraine to engage in potential peace negotiations with Russia from a position of strength.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged EU nations to provide additional air defense systems to protect critical infrastructure, including nuclear power plants and gas storage facilities. He also called for assistance in establishing safe spaces in schools and ensuring food security for families affected by the conflict.
The discussions were underscored by concerns that Trump may push Ukraine and Russia toward negotiations, potentially threatening military aid to Ukraine should it refuse. Trump has expressed intentions to expedite an end to Russia's war against Ukraine, raising questions about the possibility of European nations deploying peacekeeping forces to Ukraine if needed.
Zelensky warned of dire consequences if U.S. support were to cease, emphasizing the necessity of a united front between the U.S. and Europe to effectively counter Russian aggression. He stated, 'Only together can the United States and Europe truly stop Putin and save Ukraine.'
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed optimism regarding continued cooperation between the U.S. and Europe under Trump, asserting that decisions regarding Ukraine should not be made without Ukrainian input. Scholz emphasized the importance of unity among EU member states in supporting Ukraine for as long as necessary, pledging that Germany would remain the largest supporter of Ukraine within Europe, with military aid commitments totaling €28 billion.
However, the prospect of unity is uncertain, as Hungary, under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has resisted further military support for Ukraine and may block new EU aid plans. Orbán has suggested a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange with Russia, which Zelensky countered by stating that Orbán lacks the mandate to negotiate with Putin.
Prior to the EU meeting, confidential discussions took place within NATO, attended by Scholz, along with leaders from Poland, Italy, Denmark, and the Netherlands, as well as Zelensky and foreign ministers from France and the UK. The specifics regarding potential peacekeeping forces to ensure a ceasefire remained unclear, with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte cautioning against public debates on a potential deal between Ukraine and Russia.
Rutte highlighted the need to focus on strengthening Ukraine and enabling Zelensky to engage in negotiations with Russia when appropriate.