Ukraine Fears Summit Outcome, Seeks Inclusion in U.S.-Russia Talks

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to European leaders for their support of his efforts to participate in the upcoming U.S.–Russia summit. Kyiv is concerned that Washington and Moscow might reach an agreement to end the war that could compromise Ukraine's sovereignty. Zelenskyy emphasized that any resolution must be just and thanked those supporting Ukraine's defense of its security interests and the peace of European nations.

Leaders from Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Finland, and the European Commission issued a joint statement affirming that any diplomatic solution brokered between the U.S. and Russia must safeguard the security interests of Ukraine and Europe. The EU's foreign policy chief highlighted the U.S.'s potential to compel Russia to negotiate seriously, stressing that any deal must include Ukraine and the EU due to the implications for the security of both Ukraine and Europe.

NATO Secretary General Rutte stated that the summit would serve as a test of Putin's commitment to ending the war. Both the White House and the Kremlin have acknowledged Zelenskyy's request to join the talks, although no formal invitation has been extended. The meeting between Trump and Putin is scheduled for August 15th in Alaska. If Zelenskyy were to participate, it would be the first meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy since the war began.

The summit follows Washington's threats to impose significant tariffs on Russia and its allies. Trump has previously criticized countries like India and China for undermining G7 price caps. In response, bipartisan lawmakers introduced legislation to impose a substantial tariff on Russian oil and gas exports if Moscow continues to resist peace efforts or escalates the conflict.

A senior member of Putin's inner circle warned that efforts are underway to undermine the upcoming summit. The Russian investment envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, stated that countries seeking to prolong the conflict would attempt to disrupt the meeting through diplomatic means or disinformation. While Dmitriev did not specify which countries were involved, he cautioned that critics of the talks could seek to sabotage the summit.