Brussels: Nearly 30 world leaders convened today alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a landmark summit focused on securing Kyiv’s future in the face of a potential ceasefire with Russia. The gathering, which brought together representatives from Europe, Turkey, Australia, and Canada, aimed to draft robust security guarantees to shield Ukraine from renewed aggression. Yet, the momentum of the talks was overshadowed by a looming question: how far will the United States go in backing these commitments.
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that European militaries have already completed technical planning for the guarantees, though the details remain under wraps. “We are ready with the framework,” Macron signaled, framing the European push as a decisive step toward reducing Ukraine’s long-term vulnerabilities. But officials admitted that without Washington’s explicit participation, the project risks stalling before it can take effect.
Dutch Prime Minister and newly installed NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte pressed for clarity over American involvement, even floating the idea of a reassurance force that could deploy only with U.S. approval. His remarks highlighted the delicate balance between Europe’s growing resolve and the still-unmatched weight of U.S. military power in shaping the region’s security environment.
The summit also carried a wider diplomatic undertone, serving as a stage to urge U.S. President Donald Trump to tighten pressure on Moscow. Western officials fear that without U.S. leadership, Russia may interpret any European-led guarantees as fragile or temporary, especially while peace talks remain locked in stalemate.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin projected ambivalence insisting Moscow prefers negotiation but warning of military consequences should diplomacy collapse. His stance underscored the precariousness of the current moment: a potential opening for peace overshadowed by threats of escalation.
Analysts warn that Europe’s security pledges, however bold, may prove insufficient without American backing. “The architecture is being built, but the cornerstone is still missing,” one diplomat observed, suggesting that the credibility of any future deal rests on Washington’s willingness to act as guarantor.
For Ukraine, the summit offered both reassurance and renewed uncertainty. Allies pledged solidarity and outlined plans for future support, but the absence of firm U.S. commitments left unanswered the very question the gathering sought to resolve: who will guarantee Ukraine’s safety if Russia strikes again.