By Ilayda Cakirtekin
ISTANBUL (AA) – European leaders sent solidarity messages to Ukraine after US President Donald Trump met his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, at the White House and the meeting devolved into a fiery exchange.
“Nobody wants peace more than the citizens of Ukraine!” German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said, affirming that Ukraine can “rely on” Europe.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called for an urgent meeting between the US, European states and allies.
“Any division of the West makes us all weaker and favors those who would like to see the decline of our civilization,” she said.
Czech President Petr Pavel and Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics also reiterated their solidarity.
“Ukraine is a victim of Russian aggression. It fights the war with the help from many friends and partners,“ said Rinkevics.
“Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people,’ stated European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, reiterating her support for Ukraine and lasting peace.
“Dear Zelenskyy, dear Ukrainian friends, you are not alone,” Polish Premier Donald Tusk said.
“Trump and (US Vice President JD) Vance have put on a disgraceful show. I am ashamed of that behavior. The U.S. deserves something better,” underscored former EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell.
Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp affirmed his country had spoken with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, reiterating his support. “Whatever it takes, for as long as it takes,” Veldkamp added.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson also expressed support, highlighting that Ukraine is not only fighting for its freedom but also for all of Europe’s.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Norwegian Premier Jonas Gahr Store and Belge Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot also expressed solidarity with Ukraine.
“Ukraine is not to blame for this war brought about by Russia’s illegal invasion,” said Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris.
“Russia is the aggressor and we share Ukraine’s commitment to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace!” the Austrian Foreign Ministry said in support.
The Prime Minister of Luxemburg Luc Frieden and Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon reiterated the need for a “rules based international order”.
Icelandic Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrin and Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen also expressed support.
Portuguese Premier Lula Montenegro reaffirmed that Ukraine can always count on Portugal.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said her country “proudly” stands with Ukraine.
Croatian Premier Andrej Plenkovic affirmed that they stand “firm” in their belief that Ukraine needs “a peace that means sovereignty, territorial integrity, and a secure Europe.”
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that Ukraine and the US should remember they are on the same side.
“The best way forward now is for the minerals deal to be signed as soon as possible. There is still a path to peace,” he added.
On the other hand, Hungarian Prime Minister Orban Viktor thanked Trump for standing “bravely for peace” even if it “was difficult for many to digest.”
“Strong men make peace, weak men make war,” he added.