Nordic-Baltic leaders support Trump's initiative to end war in Ukraine

The leaders of eight Nordic-Baltic nations on August 10 jointly reaffirmed their support for Ukraine and said that peace could only come through consistent pressure being put on the Russian federation to halt its "unlawful" war.

The leaders of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden said in a statement that they: "reaffirm the principle that international borders must not be changed by force,” Caliber.Az reports via Reuters.

"We welcome the initiative of President Trump to help bring this war to an end and to lay the foundations for a just and enduring peace that ensures Ukraine’s security and the stability of Europe," the statement reads. 

The statement underscored the conviction that a diplomatic solution must safeguard the vital security interests of both Ukraine and Europe. These include "robust and credible security guarantees that enable Ukraine to effectively defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity."

The leaders emphasised that negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire, noting that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has clearly stated Ukraine’s readiness for peace talks that fully respect its sovereignty.

Highlighting the importance of Ukraine’s role in any future settlement, the statement affirmed: "The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future. The path to peace cannot be charted without Ukraine’s voice. No decisions on Ukraine without Ukraine, and no decisions on Europe without Europe."

The Nordic-Baltic Eight pledged to remain united at Ukraine’s side, resolute in the defence of their collective security. They also committed to working closely with the United States, Ukraine, and other partners to seek a peace that is just, lasting, and grounded in the principles of the UN Charter, the Helsinki Final Act, and international law.

They added that they would continue to uphold and impose restrictive measures against the Russian Federation.

US President Donald Trump announced on August 8 that he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska to negotiate an end to the war. 

A White House official has said Trump is open to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attending but preparations are underway only for a bilateral meeting.

By Sabina Mammadli