EU Leaders: ‘No Real Negotiations Are Taking Place’ on Ukraine War

European Union leaders have stated that “no real negotiations are taking place at the moment” regarding an end to the war in Ukraine, following discussions on Donald Trump’s efforts to broker peace.

During a summit in Brussels, the leaders reiterated their skepticism about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to bring the three-year conflict to an end.

Here is what you need to know

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined the meeting via video link for a brief discussion on the situation in Ukraine and the state of U.S.-led diplomatic efforts. According to an EU official’s readout of the talks mentioned in The Guardian's report, leaders shared the view that no substantial peace negotiations were currently underway.

“They discussed the situation on the ground in Ukraine and the state of play of the US-led talks. There was a shared view that no real negotiations are taking place at the moment,” reads the statement. 

The meeting, which lasted about two hours, also focused on ways to strengthen political and military support for Ukraine.

Hungary Blocks Joint EU Statement

While most EU leaders reaffirmed their backing for Ukraine, the show of unity was disrupted by Hungary’s refusal to sign a joint statement. The proposed text called on Russia to demonstrate “real political will to end the war” and emphasized that the EU remains “ready to step up further pressure on Russia,” including through new sanctions and stricter enforcement of existing measures.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s refusal to endorse the statement highlighted ongoing divisions within the bloc over how to approach the war.

EU Stands Firm on Continued Support

Despite the lack of negotiations, European leaders remain committed to aiding Ukraine. Discussions are expected to continue on how best to provide military and political assistance while also increasing economic pressure on Russia. 

While no major decisions are expected immediately, EU leaders are set to debate how to fund defense investments. Before the summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the importance of the discussions, stating, “these are decisive days for Europe.”