European leaders reaffirm support for Ukraine, call for security guarantees

The leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Germany met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on June 7 to reaffirm continued support for Ukraine and coordinate next steps toward what they described as a “just and lasting peace” with Russia.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz underlined Europe’s role in any future settlement and stressed that all efforts should be coordinated closely with Ukraine, European partners and the United States, Caliber.Az reports per the joint E3 leaders’ statement.

The leaders welcomed Ukraine’s recent battlefield developments, including territorial gains and expanded use of drone technology, while condemning Russia’s missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian cities and alleged incursions into NATO territory.

They also discussed upcoming international meetings, including the G7 summit in Evian and NATO gatherings, aimed at coordinating further military and financial support for Kyiv, including increased production of air defence systems and long-term defence cooperation.

On potential peace negotiations, the leaders outlined several conditions they said would be necessary for a settlement, including an immediate ceasefire, using the current front line as a basis for talks, and legally binding security guarantees for Ukraine once hostilities cease. They also emphasised that Ukraine’s sovereignty and right to choose its alliances must be fully respected.

The statement also called for Russian frozen assets to remain immobilised until compensation is paid for war damage, and stressed that any agreement must safeguard broader European security interests.

The leaders expressed support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s call for direct dialogue with Russia, with participation from the United States and Europe, and reaffirmed their commitment to continue supporting Ukraine.

By Sabina Mammadli