International figures in Europe advocate for intensified sanctions against Russia, prior to the impending meeting between Trump and Putin

In a significant move, a joint statement was issued overnight from Saturday to Sunday by the European heads of state and government, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President António Costa.

The joint statement, published before the summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, expresses solidarity with Ukraine and its people in their struggle for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The European leaders unequivocally state that Ukraine has the freedom to decide its own fate.

The joint statement is committed to supporting Ukraine, both financially and militarily. The European nations are prepared to continue extensive military aid to Ukraine, as well as financial aid, to help it defend itself against Russia's illegal war. The statement emphasises that robust and credible security guarantees are necessary for Ukraine to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The European leaders also advocate for active diplomatic efforts to end Russia's war in Ukraine. They welcome Donald Trump's efforts to end the killing in Ukraine, to end the Russian war of aggression, and to achieve a just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine. The statement supports a diplomatic solution that protects the vital security interests of Ukraine and Europe.

The joint statement further stresses that meaningful negotiations can only take place within the framework of a ceasefire or a reduction in hostilities in Ukraine. The path to peace in Ukraine, according to the European leaders, cannot be decided without Ukraine. The statement ends by expressing support for a diplomatic solution that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The joint statement from Germany, France, Italy, Poland, the UK, Finland, and the EU aims to send a clear message to the world that the European nations stand united in their support for Ukraine and their commitment to peace and security in Europe.