European leaders reiterate support for Ukraine

Washington: After news of the White House meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky devolved into shouting on Friday there were swift and widespread messages of solidarity and support for Ukraine from leaders across Europe.

 EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas also joined in the support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. “We will step up our support to Ukraine so that they can continue to fight back the aggressor,” she wrote in a post on X. Kallas also stressed that “the free world needs a new leader” and that it’s up to Europe “to take this challenge”.

Germany’s Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz also backed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after his Oval Office blow-up with US President Donald Trump, saying: “We stand with Ukraine in good and in testing times.” “We must never confuse aggressor and victim in this terrible war,” Merz posted on X.

Germany’s outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz also chimed in, stressing that “Ukraine can rely on Germany and on Europe,” after Volodymyr Zelensky’s spat with US President Donald Trump at the White House.

“Nobody wants peace more than the citizens of Ukraine. That’s why we’re searching together for a path of lasting and just peace,” Scholz said on X.

European Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen has joined European leaders in solidarity with Ukraine, after President Volodymyr Zelensky prematurely left Washington D.C. following a shouting match with US President Donald Trump and Vice-President J.D. Vance.

“Your dignity honours the bravery of the Ukrainian people,” Von der Leyen said, urging Ukrainians to “be strong, be brave, be fearless”. “You are never alone, dear President Zelensky. We will continue working with you for a just and lasting peace.” The statement was posted on X in English and then in Ukrainian. (IANS)

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