Germany’s Federal Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reiterated Europe’s steadfast support for Ukraine amid President Zelensky’s recent visit to the US, where a raw materials agreement was not finalized. French President Macron and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed solidarity with Zelensky. Tensions arose following Trump’s comments on Zelensky’s willingness for peace, leading to canceled public engagements for the Ukrainian leader. Poland’s President and Germany’s leaders confirmed their commitment to Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict with Russia.
Germany’s Federal Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, has reaffirmed the unwavering support of Germany and Europe for Ukraine in light of the recent events during President Zelensky’s visit to the United States. Notably, the anticipated raw materials agreement between the US and Ukraine did not materialize.
Here are the significant updates from the situation:
Macron Reaches Out
French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in a telephone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following the White House incident, as announced by the Élysée Palace. Specifics of their discussion remain undisclosed at this time.
Additionally, the Financial Times reported that Zelensky held talks with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
Von der Leyen Advocates for Peace
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the EU Commission, assured President Zelensky of her commitment to pursuing a fair peace. On platform X, she expressed: ‘We will persist in our efforts alongside you for a just and lasting peace.’ Her message to Zelensky was one of encouragement: ‘Stay strong, brave, and fearless. You are never alone.’
Merz Emphasizes Clarity in Conflict
Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, expressed solidarity with President Zelensky, stating, ‘Dear Volodymyr Zelensky, we stand beside Ukraine through both good and challenging times.’ He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between the aggressor and the victim in this devastating conflict.
Scholz Affirms Germany’s Commitment
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz reassured Ukraine of Germany’s steadfast support, saying, ‘No one yearns for peace more than the Ukrainian people! Thus, we are jointly seeking a pathway to a durable and just peace.’ He affirmed that Ukraine can depend on both Germany and Europe.
Zelensky’s Public Engagements Canceled
A scheduled appearance by President Zelensky at the Hudson Institute in Washington has been called off, as reported by the institution. Additionally, a visit to the Ukrainian cultural center in the nation’s capital has also been canceled, according to a Ukrainian government spokesperson.
Video Highlights Incident
Confrontation Between US and Ukrainian Leaders
Sybiha Praises Zelensky’s Bravery
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha commended President Zelensky for his bravery in confronting US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Sybiha remarked on platform X that Zelensky possesses ‘the courage and strength to advocate for what is right,’ emphasizing his dedication to Ukraine and the pursuit of a just and lasting peace. ‘We have always appreciated America’s support and will continue to do so.’
Medvedev Calls Incident an ‘Ice-Cold Slap’
Baerbock: Ukraine is Not Alone
Minister Baerbock stated on social media, ‘Ukraine is not alone. Germany stands resolutely with our European allies in support of Ukraine and against Russian aggression.’ She underscored that Ukraine can count on Germany, Europe, and beyond for unwavering support.
Zelensky Expresses Gratitude
Following his discussions with US President Trump and Vice President Vance, President Zelensky expressed his deep appreciation. He thanked President Trump, Congress, and the American public. ‘Ukraine seeks a just and lasting peace, and we are diligently working towards that,’ he stated on platform X.
Poland Stands with Ukraine
Polish President Donald Tusk extended assurances of Poland’s solidarity with Zelensky and Ukraine, stating, ‘Dear Zelensky, dear Ukrainian friends, you are not alone,’ on platform X.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Backs Zelensky
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal voiced his support for President Zelensky after the incident at the White House, affirming on platform X that ‘peace without guarantees is not possible.’
Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk added, ‘No one has the right to forget that in this conflict, Russia is the aggressor and Ukraine is the victim.’
Klingbeil: Germany Takes Initiative
Lars Klingbeil, co-chair of the SPD, asserted that Germany will take a leadership role in assisting Ukraine. He remarked that the actions of the US government highlight the need for Europe to assume greater responsibility for its future. ‘Germany must and will lead the way in supporting Ukraine.’
Raw Materials Agreement Unexecuted
Following the incident involving President Zelensky’s visit to President Trump, the signing of the anticipated raw materials agreement between the United States and Ukraine did not occur, as confirmed by the White House.
Brantner Accuses Trump of Coercion
Franziska Brantner, leader of the Green Party, criticized US President Trump for what she described as imperialistic behavior during Zelensky’s visit. She stated on platform X, ‘Trump demonstrates what he considers diplomacy: coercion and betrayal. Those who cannot be bought are seen as ‘ungrateful.’ This is not peace; it is imperialist power dynamics.’
Macron Calls for Respect for Ukraine
President Macron remarked after the White House incident that Russia is the aggressor, and the Ukrainian people are the ones under attack. He reiterated the importance of supporting Ukraine and imposing sanctions on Russia, and stressed that respect should be afforded to those who have fought since the outset.
Report on Raw Materials Deal
Reports indicate that the planned raw materials agreement between President Zelensky and President Trump was not finalized after the incident, according to a source cited by Reuters.
Trump’s Remarks on Social Media
President Trump accused President Zelensky of lacking willingness to pursue peace with the US. On his social media platform, Truth Social, he stated that Zelensky has shown disrespect towards the United States and the Oval Office, adding, ‘He can return when he is ready for peace.’
Press Conference Canceled
The planned press conference between President Trump and President Zelensky at the White House has been officially canceled, according to the White House.
Zelensky Departing the White House
Zelensky has left the White House following the events of the day.