European Leaders Rally Behind Zelenskiy Amid U.S.-Russia Peace Push

European leaders are converging in Washington to back Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy as U.S. President Donald Trump urges Ukraine to concede to a swift peace agreement with Russia. After his meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, Trump aligns with Moscow, promoting a peace deal over a ceasefire.

Germany, France, and the UK stand firm on the importance of securing robust guarantees for Ukraine's sovereignty, stressing that territorial negotiations must involve Kyiv. The European show of unity aims to avoid diplomatic failures experienced in past encounters with the U.S. administration.

Despite Trump's and Russia's suggestions, many European allies remain skeptical about entering peace talks without a ceasefire. Ukraine's Zelenskiy confirms commitment to independence, reiterating that any peace deal must ensure comprehensive protection across land, air, and sea with European partnership.

(With inputs from agencies.)