European leaders renew support for Ukraine after Zelenskyy's stormy meeting with Trump : NPR

Key Events

European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, strongly condemned the controversial meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump's accusations that Zelenskyy was 'gambling with World War III' were met with swift rebuke from European nations.

European Response

Many European leaders openly criticized Trump's apparent alignment with Russia and his harsh treatment of Zelenskyy. Macron highlighted the distinction between Russia as the aggressor and Ukraine as the victim. Support for Ukraine was expressed through statements, social media posts, and symbolic gestures like lighting the Eiffel Tower in Ukrainian colors.

• Prime Minister Starmer reiterated unwavering support for Ukraine.
• Other European leaders (e.g., from France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Poland) publicly declared their continued backing of Ukraine.
• Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, praised Zelenskyy's dignity and bravery.

Ukrainian and Russian Reactions

In Ukraine, reactions ranged from defiance to concern. Some Ukrainian officials expressed deep distrust of the Trump administration's stance. In contrast, Russia praised Trump, while harshly criticizing Zelenskyy, perpetuating its existing propaganda portraying him as a dangerous threat.

• A prominent Ukrainian politician expressed strong distrust of the Trump administration.
• Russian officials lauded Trump and condemned Zelenskyy, echoing prior propaganda.

Conclusion

The article concludes with European leaders planning to meet and discuss the next steps following the tense meeting in the Oval Office, highlighting the divisions and potential challenges for Ukraine moving forward.