Trump-Putin meeting should not decide future of Ukraine and Europe – MEPs

The Renew Europe political group in the European Parliament insists that during the meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin on Friday, the future of Ukraine and the security of Europe cannot be determined "without their direct participation and consent," the Suspilne publication has repoted.

"Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine, and nothing about European security without Europe. Any discussion on our continent's security must have Ukraine and the EU at the table; not as observers, but as decision-makers whose agreement is essential," President of Renew Europe Valérie Hayer said.

She also stressed the importance of strengthening support for Ukraine not only for its victory, but also for preventing further aggression by Russia against Europe.

"Ukraine's sovereignty is core to Europe's security, and we will never accept its future being decided in a closed room in Alaska without its consent or ours. Strengthening our support for Ukraine is essential, not only to help it win, but to deter further Russian aggression against Europe. It is unacceptable for Ukraine, as the country aggressed, to be sidelined in decisions about its own future," Hayer said.

Renew Europe MEP and standing shadow rapporteur on Ukraine Petras Auštrevičius said peace negotiations are about securing Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, protecting people's lives, and ensuring a European future.

"Only Ukrainians can decide, and their Western partners support their choices. Europe must maintain its voice and presence at the negotiating table, as the situation in Ukraine — our strategic partner — will determine our shared future," Auštrevičius said.

Renew Europe also calls on EU institutions and member states to take urgent diplomatic efforts to "ensure Ukraine's voice is heard."