Since early 2022, the war between Ukraine and Russia has caused immense human suffering. During this critical phase, Europe consistently supported Ukraine financially and economically while warning Russia. To fill the crisis in Ukraine, European nations have also played their role in the best way. However, Europe’s intense involvement in Ukraine’s peace process has raised questions about its effectiveness.
The possibility of a shift in US foreign policy has been indicated by Donald Trump becoming president. Trump has declared his intention to place greater priority on US interests and to deal directly with Russia. The leaders of Europe are concerned that the US would negotiate a distinct peace deal with Russia as a consequence, sidelining Europe and putting its interests at risk.
What kind of agreement is it?
Trump surprised his European friends by contacting Russian President Vladimir Putin without first consulting Kyiv or them and by announcing an urgent start to peace talks with Ukraine. The Trump administration has stated that the US has other concerns like border security and China countering and that European allies in NATO should bear the major responsibility for the region.
European nations have invested considerable money and troops in defending Ukraine. They have also provided humanitarian assistance and accepted millions of refugees from Ukraine. Europe’s devotion to Ukraine and the sacrifices it made would be undermined if it were left out of peace talks.
Although European countries mostly collaborate militarily through NATO, governments have so far rejected several proposals for the establishment of a united European army, claiming that national sovereignty governs defense. Long-term troop provision would be challenging, even for even of Ukraine’s most ardent supporters. Poland presently forbids deploying soldiers to Ukraine due to concerns for its own defense, despite having the biggest ground forces in Europe. Finland’s army is based on conscription rather than professional service. Only 30,200 soldiers make up the regular armed forces of the Baltic republics, but by including active reserves, volunteer forces, and the National Guard, that number can be increased by another 135,000.
European leaders’ stress level
The US may have different intentions and perspectives, although European politicians emphasize how significant it is to them to be invited to join peace talks. The Trump government has indicated clearly that it intends to focus on internal issues and reduce US participation in global crises. This can lead to a willingness to cooperate toward a quick resolution of the conflict in Ukraine at the cost of Europe.
The Trump administration’s focus on domestic issues, including the creation of jobs and economic growth, can make individuals desire to avoid foreign wars that are seen as money down the drain. Europeans should concentrate on their stance rather than squandering time and money attempting to comprehend the subtleties of a changing and inconsistent US policy.
Europe needs to present a concrete and unambiguous offer that forces it to engage in war talks.
The problem is that there isn’t a clear agreement on what Europe can do to help Ukraine’s security, not even among the willing coalition.
The force’s necessary size and composition will also depend on its intended use. Zelenskyy stated in Davos that 200,000 foreign troops would be needed to protect any new demarcation line; this figure was ultimately lowered to 100,000–150,000. It may be arbitrary to discuss numbers before establishing a defined goal, but given practical considerations like leave and rotation schedules, it is obvious that the number must be substantial.
How is it possible to have a peace negotiation without European backing?
Any such illusions have been shattered during the last week. At a NATO defense ministerial, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth presented the US’s strategy regarding Ukraine, which was modified a day later. Hegseth suggested giving Russia more territory, excluding Ukraine from NATO, and preventing US forces from ensuring Ukraine’s security. President Trump then disclosed that he had established a direct connection with Putin. A new European weapons race and increased military expenditure could be the outcome. Exclusion from peace talks would send the message that the West is divided and not able to present a united front in the face of adversity.
This could embolden Russia and other repressive regimes to go their way, independent of international agreements and standards, in pursuing their interests. Europe would be free to voice its concerns and make recommendations during the negotiations as a consequence.
Meta Description: Amid shifting US foreign policy, Europe fears being sidelined in Ukraine peace talks with Russia, risking its interests and undermining regional stability.
