European Leaders Meet in London to Discuss Ukraine Peace Plan Amid US Proposals

High-Level Summit in Downing Street

London – French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met today, Monday, December 8, 2025, at 10 Downing Street in London for crucial discussions regarding a peace plan for Ukraine. The European leaders, joined by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, gathered to address US proposals aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine and to reinforce European support for Kyiv.

Responding to US Peace Initiatives

The meeting comes at what European allies described as a 'decisive time' in the US-led efforts to resolve the war in Ukraine. Discussions focused on how to respond to recent proposals from the United States, with European leaders aiming to strengthen Ukraine's negotiating position. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy had previously engaged in three days of talks with US counterparts on these proposals. He emphasized the necessity of continued support, stating, 'We can't manage without Americans, we can't manage without Europe and that is why we need to make some important decisions.'

European Unity and Concerns

While expressing strong support for Ukraine, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz voiced skepticism about certain details within the US-released documents. 'We have to talk about it. That's why we are here,' Merz stated, adding that the coming days 'could be a decisive time for all of us.' French President Macron's office indicated that the session allowed leaders 'to continue joint work on the US plan in order to complement it with European contributions, in close coordination with Ukraine.' British Prime Minister Starmer underscored the need for 'a just and lasting ceasefire' and 'hard-edged security guarantees' behind any cessation of hostilities.

Focus on Security and Funding

President Zelenskyy indicated that his talks with European leaders this week, including further meetings in Brussels, would concentrate on key areas such as security, air defense, and long-term funding for Ukraine's war efforts. The leaders are working to ensure that any ceasefire is backed by robust security guarantees from both Europe and the US to deter future aggression from Russia. The meeting also took place amidst comments from US President Donald Trump, who reportedly expressed frustration with Zelenskyy, claiming the Ukrainian leader 'hasn't yet read the proposal.' European leaders, however, maintained a supportive stance towards Kyiv.