BRUSSELS – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the notion of Moscow offering security guarantees to Kyiv, even as the United States and the European Union pushed forward with a plan resembling NATO-style protections.
The discussion emerged after White House envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin had reached an understanding on “robust security guarantees” for Ukraine during their talks in Alaska on Aug 15.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking alongside Zelensky in Brussels on Aug 17, praised Washington’s initiative as a signal of renewed transatlantic cooperation. “We welcome President Trump’s willingness to contribute to Article 5-like security guarantees for Ukraine, and the coalition of the willing, including the European Union, is ready to do its share,” she said.
While Zelensky welcomed the prospect of American backing, he rejected the idea that Moscow could play a credible role. “What President Trump said about security guarantees is much more important to me than Putin’s thoughts, because Putin will not give any security guarantees,” Zelensky told reporters.
Emphasizing Ukraine’s own defense capabilities, he added: “Security means a strong army, which only Ukraine can provide. I believe that only Europe can finance this army.”
Both leaders also addressed speculation about a possible trilateral summit involving Trump, Putin, and Zelensky himself. While von der Leyen called for the meeting to take place “as soon as possible,” the Ukrainian president was more cautious, warning that Russia had yet to show serious interest. “So far, Russia gives no sign that the trilateral will happen, and if Russia refuses, then new sanctions must follow,” Zelensky said.
Looking ahead, Zelensky is scheduled to travel to Washington on Aug 18 for direct talks with President Trump. Von der Leyen and other European officials are expected to join the high-stakes discussions, keeping Ukraine’s security at the heart of transatlantic diplomacy.