As discussions over a potential ceasefire in Ukraine intensify, European leaders remain deeply skeptical of Vladimir Putin’s latest demands. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas has warned that Russia is not genuinely seeking peace but instead using the opportunity to push for its long-term strategic goals.
The skepticism comes as former U.S. President Donald Trump prepares for another high-stakes phone call with Putin, a conversation that Europe is watching with great concern. This call follows a previous surprise agreement on February 12, where Trump and Putin unexpectedly announced plans to launch peace negotiations—leaving Western allies scrambling to respond.
Russia’s Ceasefire Conditions: A Tactical Move?
Moscow has responded cautiously to Washington’s proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine has already accepted. However, Putin has insisted on further clarifications, particularly regarding whether Western military aid and Ukrainian troop mobilization will continue during the truce.
“So during these 30 days, will mobilization continue in Ukraine? Will weapons be supplied there? Are these 30 days meant for newly mobilized units to be trained? Or will none of that happen?” Putin questioned during a press conference.
Additionally, Russia continues to demand the ‘demilitarization’ of Ukraine, a condition that Kyiv strongly opposes. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed these demands as predictable and manipulative, warning that Russia’s military buildup along Ukraine’s northeastern border indicates an intent to prolong the war, not seek peace.
European Leaders Push Back Against Russian Proposals
Speaking after a Brussels meeting of EU foreign ministers, Kaja Kallas made it clear that Russia cannot be trusted to engage in genuine peace talks.
“What we see right now is that Russia doesn’t really want peace,” she said. “There was a clear understanding around the table that Russia cannot be trusted in these negotiations.”
Her concerns were echoed by Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys, who criticized the expectation that Ukraine should make unilateral concessions while Russia imposes multiple conditions.
“There is no place for peace in Putin’s imperialist agenda,” Budrys stated. “His actions speak louder than words.”
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen also warned against Putin exploiting Trump’s peace efforts to further weaken Ukraine.
Trump’s Optimism vs. Europe’s Skepticism
Despite European concerns, Donald Trump remains optimistic about his upcoming phone call with Putin, scheduled for Tuesday.
“We will be talking about land. We will be talking about power plants,” Trump stated, adding that negotiations have already begun on dividing up certain assets.
“I think we have a good chance,” he said, fueling speculation about a potential U.S.-Russia deal that could bypass European involvement.
Europe’s Response: Military Aid and Strategic Coalitions
As Washington engages in direct talks with Moscow, European leaders are ramping up efforts to secure Ukraine’s defense.
Kaja Kallas has proposed a new military aid coalition that would mobilize up to €40 billion in fresh military support for Ukraine. This initiative aims to bypass potential vetoes from Hungary and Slovakia and allow contributions from non-EU countries like the UK and Norway.
“Right now, the discussion is in the details,” Kallas said. “But everyone at the table agreed that we must show resolve and support Ukraine so they can defend themselves.”
At the same time, French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer are leading another coalition focused on securing Ukraine’s airspace and territorial sovereignty. According to Starmer’s office, this coalition will involve over 30 nations and include various forms of support beyond military deployment.
What’s Next?
With Trump and Putin’s phone call approaching, Europe remains cautious about the potential outcomes. The last time both leaders spoke, their unexpected diplomatic breakthrough shocked Western allies and raised concerns about the future of U.S.-Europe cooperation on Ukraine.
As EU leaders prepare for a summit on Thursday, the focus will be on maintaining a unified European stance against Russian aggression and ensuring that Ukraine receives unwavering military and financial support.