Europe Rallies for Ukraine Talks Amid Shifting US Stance

European leaders are converging on a unified negotiation strategy for Ukraine, with key summits planned in London and Paris to develop a framework for potential talks with Russia. The "Volenterosi" group, including the prime ministers of Britain and Germany, and the presidents of France and Ukraine, will meet in London to coordinate their approach. This initiative signals a shift in European thinking, moving beyond solely pressuring Moscow to actively preparing for a negotiated settlement.

The strategy unfolds against a backdrop of escalating conflict. Ukraine recently launched an extensive drone attack targeting St. Petersburg, with 86 drones reportedly aimed at naval arsenals and a base in Kronstadt. While causing only minor injuries, the attack demonstrated Ukraine's military reach and prompted unprecedented public warnings in the city. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky framed the strikes as a response to Russia's continued aggression, stating on X that "it is time to end this war." However, Russia's reaction remains a significant concern, with fears of a bloody reprisal.

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It is time to end this war. But the leader of Russia wants to continue to fight. That is why Ukraine's sanctions against this aggression are working.

Adding to the dynamic is a growing conviction in Brussels that Russian President Vladimir Putin is weakening. This perception, coupled with a perceived disengagement from negotiation efforts by the United States, is spurring Europe to act more decisively. Donald Trump's reported statement, "Let them sort it out among themselves," regarding potential Putin-Zelensky talks, underscores this shift. European nations, while acknowledging US involvement in any eventual peace talks, recognize the need to forge their own path.

This increased European activism, particularly from France and Germany, leaves Italy seemingly a step behind, despite its consistent stance against deploying troops. The upcoming July 14 meeting in Paris, convened by Macron, will further solidify Europe's independent push for a resolution, aiming to shape the future of the conflict on its own terms.

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Let them sort it out among themselves