European leaders rally behind Ukraine amid Trump-Zelenskyy White House fallout

BERLIN — European leaders have reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine following the tense and highly publicized Oval Office clash between U.S. President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The dramatic encounter, which saw Trump berate Zelenskyy and cancel a critical minerals deal, has widened the transatlantic rift and intensified European concerns over U.S. commitment to Ukraine's security.

In the aftermath of the confrontation, European heads of state convened emergency summits and issued statements backing Ukraine.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who will host a major security summit in London on Sunday, spoke with both Trump and Zelenskyy, affirming his “unwavering support” for Ukraine and advocating for a “lasting peace based on sovereignty and security.”

French President Emmanuel Macron, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and European Council President Antonio Costa were among the first to reach out to Zelenskyy, offering reassurance after his abrupt White House departure.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also voiced support, commending Zelenskyy’s “dignity” in the face of diplomatic turmoil.

Germany’s likely next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, emphasized solidarity, stating: “We stand with Ukraine in good and in testing times. We must never confuse aggressor and victim in this terrible war.” His recent electoral victory signals continued robust German backing for Kyiv.

However, far-right voices in Europe struck a different tone. Alice Weidel, co-leader of Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which opposes military aid to Ukraine, praised Trump and Vance’s handling of the meeting, calling it “historic.”

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a close ally of Moscow, hailed Trump’s stance, asserting, “Strong men make peace, weak men make war.”

With growing uncertainty over U.S. support, European leaders are exploring independent measures to strengthen Ukraine’s position.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has proposed an urgent U.S.-Europe summit to address security coordination, warning that “every division of the West makes us all weaker.”

In Eastern Europe, Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna called on Europe to mobilize resources, including Russia’s frozen assets, to sustain Ukraine’s defense.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson underscored the war’s broader implications: “You are not only fighting for your freedom but also for all of Europe’s.” — Agencies