Zelenskyy: Ukraine preparing for bilateral meetings with European partners to bolster support

Ahead of a trilateral meeting with Russia, U.S. Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff announced that the United States, Ukraine, and their European partners aim to transition toward multilateral discussions involving European partners. Speaking on X Tuesday, Witkoff emphasized the shared objective of achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace through these expanded talks.

Prior to the trilateral negotiations with Russia, representatives from the United States, Ukraine, and European partners convened for discussions focused on establishing a practical and mutually reinforcing security framework. The objective was to bolster Ukraine's long-term security and foster the trust necessary for a negotiated settlement. Witkoff highlighted that these talks were characterized by cooperation, underscoring the shared goals of all parties involved.

Witkoff stressed that any future arrangements must uphold Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independent decision-making while providing credible security guarantees. The participants agreed on the overarching goal of developing a robust and complementary security system to enhance Ukraine's long-term security and cultivate the trust essential for a negotiated settlement.

Moreover, the discussions addressed the development of existing European security institutions and agreements following the conclusion of the war in Ukraine. Participants recognized the importance of addressing post-war security concerns and mitigating the risk of future conflicts. They emphasized the need for strong mechanisms to manage risk and prevent dangerous escalations.

Witkoff reiterated the commitment to a robust post-war European security architecture, affirming that a strong NATO remains central to Euro-Atlantic collective defense.