European leaders say intensive work will continue in the coming days on a US-led plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war, after a joint phone call with President Donald Trump.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said they agreed that this was a critical moment - for Ukraine, its people and for shared security across the Euro-Atlantic region.
A White House official confirmed the call took place but did not provide details.
This comes the day after Trump called European leaders weak, suggesting the US could scale back support for Ukraine.
In the wide-ranging Politico interview published recently, Trump also claimed Ukraine was using war to avoid holding elections, prompting Zelensky to reply he was ready for them.
Since the start of the invasion in February 2022, Russia has controlled about 20% of Ukrainian territory.
The trio of European leaders later reiterated a shared commitment to a US-led peace initiative, highlighting that intensive work on the peace plan is continuing and will continue in the coming days. Zelensky mentioned that a 20-point document concerning the war's conclusion would soon be presented to the US after collaborative work with Trump’s team.
Despite Trump's escalating pressure for Ukraine to agree to a peace deal, which may involve territorial concessions, Zelensky remains resolute in seeking a ceasefire on the substantial front lines and security guarantees in any future settlement.
Recent discourse from the Kremlin aligns with Trump's statements about Ukraine needing to adjust its territorial stance, reflecting a growing diplomatic tension in the region.
