US-Russia Ukraine Negotiations Draw Mixed Reactions from Europe
European leaders have expressed concern that their interests may be sidelined after US President Donald Trump's call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which they agreed to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine.
European Concerns
European leaders, including the EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur, emphasized that Europe must play a central role in any negotiations. They fear that concessions made without their involvement could undermine the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
UK Defense Secretary John Healey asserted that Ukraine's voice must be at the heart of any talks, while Defense Minister Pevkur warned that a deal struck without Europe would not be lasting.
US Position
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed these concerns, stating that America "recognized the incredible commitments" allies had made. He maintained that a negotiated peace required "both sides recognizing things they don't want to."
Hegseth emphasized that the US would not contribute troops to a peace settlement, and that NATO membership for Ukraine was unrealistic. He suggested that Kyiv might have to accept some territorial losses.
Market Reactions
News of the Trump-Putin call sent Russian stock prices surging, while European defense shares fell. Investors anticipated a breakthrough that could end the war, which began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
NATO Response
NATO's Secretary General Mark Rutte stressed the importance of preventing Putin from further attempts to seize Ukrainian territory. He emphasized the alliance's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty.
Demand for Increased Defense Spending
Trump's skepticism of NATO has renewed calls from European leaders for increased defense spending. Hegseth reiterated the alliance's goal of spending 5% of gross domestic product on defense, which no member currently meets.
Other Perspectives
Russia-friendly governments, such as Hungary, expressed optimism at the outcome of the Trump-Putin call. Trading volumes and prices for Russian stocks and the ruble rose significantly, reflecting market sentiment.
Experts, such as former US ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul, criticized Trump's strategy, arguing that giving Putin concessions before negotiations with Ukraine was not a sound approach.