European Leaders Rally Behind Zelensky Amid U.S. Tensions

 Kyiv/London/Paris – Just 48 hours after a heated confrontation between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump, European leaders gathered on March 3 to reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine. The meeting of allied nations provided an opportunity for Europe to demonstrate its unwavering support for Kyiv, in stark contrast to the tense exchanges at the White House days earlier.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron spearheaded the diplomatic effort, offering both military and financial assistance, including funds derived from Russian assets seized in Europe. Zelensky was warmly received in London by Starmer and later met King Charles III, underscoring the depth of the UK’s support. A symbolic show of unity followed, with European and Western allies standing shoulder to shoulder in a family photo with the Ukrainian leader.

Franco-British Ceasefire Initiative Gains Momentum

As part of a renewed push for peace, Starmer and Macron are advocating for a one-month ceasefire covering air, sea, and energy infrastructure in Ukraine. Macron has emphasized that, for now, no European troops will be deployed on Ukrainian soil.

The initiative, while welcomed in Kyiv, has sparked mixed reactions. Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko acknowledged Europe's growing resolve: "We all underestimated the Europeans. They have proven us wrong. There is still political will in Europe. And the realization is setting in that perhaps the French perspective—where Europe must take charge of its own security—is not unfounded."

Despite this, Ukrainian political leaders remain divided. While some embrace the proposal as a necessary step toward ending the war, others express concern that a hastily brokered peace without firm guarantees could force Ukraine into excessive concessions.

U.S. Position and Concerns Over Zelensky’s Leadership

Amid growing transatlantic tensions, Trump’s National Security Adviser, Mike Waltz, suggested on Sunday that Zelensky’s departure could be a way to facilitate negotiations between the U.S. and Russia to end the war. The remark has sparked outrage in Kyiv, where the majority of Ukrainians remain steadfastly behind their president.

Since the start of the war, Moscow has demanded Zelensky’s removal as a precondition for negotiations. Waltz’s comments, from Kyiv’s perspective, appear to align with Russian interests, deepening concerns that Washington’s position may be shifting.

While Zelensky's defiant stance has been widely praised, some Ukrainian officials worry that his confrontational approach—particularly with the U.S.—could backfire. There are growing fears in Kyiv that American aid, crucial for Ukraine’s survival, could be suspended in the coming days.

Europe Takes Charge as U.S. Policy Remains Uncertain

As Washington reassesses its role in the conflict, European leaders are increasingly stepping up their commitments. The Franco-British ceasefire initiative, coupled with growing military investments across the continent, signals that Europe is preparing for the possibility of reduced U.S. involvement.

While divisions remain, the latest diplomatic push highlights a strategic shift: Europe is no longer waiting for Washington’s lead—it is taking active measures to shape Ukraine’s future and its own security landscape.