Translated with AI
On Wednesday, December 10, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a 40-minute telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump. During the conversation, the current situation in Ukraine and measures to advance a peaceful resolution to the conflict were discussed.
According to the Elysée Palace, the purpose of the consultations was to "move forward" on issues related to a peaceful settlement on Ukrainian territory. Following the talks, the leaders of the three European countries noted the critical importance of the current situation for Ukraine, its citizens, and the security of the entire Euro-Atlantic region.
Macron, Merz, and Starmer praised US efforts to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine and end the violence. Meanwhile, in recent days, Donald Trump has sharply criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, calling for presidential elections, which are currently impossible under Ukraine's current military legislation.
In response to criticism, Zelenskyy reaffirmed his readiness to hold the elections, emphasizing that the United States and European partners must ensure security conditions to ensure they are held legally and safely.
Against this backdrop, representatives of the so-called "coalition of the willing," comprising approximately 30 countries, primarily from Europe, are planning a videoconference on December 11, co-chaired by the United Kingdom and France. The discussion will address issues related to ensuring Ukraine's security, which is under attack from Russia, and the potential US contribution to these measures.
Earlier, about three weeks ago, the US administration presented a plan to end the war in Ukraine. The initial version of the plan drew criticism, as it was seen as too favorable to Moscow. It was subsequently revised to accommodate the demands of Kyiv and its European allies. Currently, Ukraine and its European partners are insisting on further clarification of the document, particularly regarding security guarantees and protection for the Ukrainian population.
The telephone conversation between Macron, Merz, and Starmer with Trump was an important part of diplomatic efforts to coordinate the approaches of European countries and the United States to resolving the Ukrainian crisis. Experts note that this consultation demonstrates European leaders' desire to maintain dialogue with the US administration, despite Trump's recent harsh statements about the situation in Ukraine.
