US President Donald Trump’s extensive phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin has raised concerns in Europe about the potential for a “dirty deal” that could resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine without the involvement of Ukraine’s leadership. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asserted that Ukraine would not accept a peace agreement reached solely by the US and Russia. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas echoed these sentiments, emphasising the necessity for both Ukraine and Europe to be included in any negotiations.
The situation has unsettled NATO allies, with European nations fearing being sidelined in a deal that may impose heavy burdens on them while the US may benefit from rare earth minerals from Ukraine. Newly appointed US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth previously indicated that NATO forces would be responsible for enforcing any agreement without American troops. The narrative has raised alarms, especially among Eastern European states, as they contemplate the implications of a possible unfolding agreement.
With many European officials seeking assurance that they will have a seat at the negotiating table, Kallas stated firmly that any deal made “behind our backs will not work.” As this geopolitical tension continues, Europe is urged to strengthen its own military capacities and ensure collaborative decision-making in defence matters to avoid repeating historical mistakes.