European leaders say Ukraine must be part of any peace deal

AI Summary

European leaders emphasized that Ukraine must be involved in any peace negotiations regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia. Ahead of a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, leaders from the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Finland, and the European Commission issued a joint statement stressing the need for a diplomatic solution that protects Ukraine's and Europe's security interests, including robust security guarantees for Ukraine. They affirmed Ukraine's right to determine its own destiny and stated that meaningful negotiations require a ceasefire or reduction in hostilities. The current line of contact should be the basis for any talks.