European leaders pledge to stand by Ukraine after heated clash

Globally, numerous prime ministers, presidents, and foreign ministers have expressed their support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, following what was described as a heated exchange in the Oval Office. A planned press conference and signing ceremony for a US-Ukraine mineral agreement were swiftly canceled after Trump demanded Zelenskyy leave the White House immediately. This sudden change of events sparked international concern and debate.

Zelenskyy, after his departure, posted on social media that Ukraine needs "a just and lasting peace," adding that they are "working to achieve it." A wave of support subsequently emerged online, with comments from French President Emmanuel Macron and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson being the most emphatic. Macron stated that he believes "we were all right three years ago to help Ukraine and sanction Russia, and we will continue to do so." Such international solidarity demonstrates a commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty.

Macron, speaking to reporters during a state visit to Portugal, said: "There is an aggressor, which is Russia, and a people who are attacked, which is Ukraine. We must thank all those who help and respect those who have been fighting since the beginning." EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas issued a strongly worded but sobering statement, arguing that "the free world needs a new leader today," and that "it is up to Europeans to take on this challenge." These statements highlight the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the need for strong leadership.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on X that Zelenskyy's "dignity shines through the bravery of the Ukrainian people." She added: "Strong, brave, fearless. Dear President, you are never alone." Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni proposed an "immediate summit" between the US and European allies to "discuss frankly how we intend to tackle the huge challenges of our time, starting with Ukraine." She emphasized that "every division in the West makes us all weaker and benefits those who want to see our civilization decline," arguing that "division benefits no one." Meloni's call for unity underscores the importance of a cohesive Western response.

Meanwhile, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, whose country borders Russia, firmly expressed his support for Ukraine. Tsahkna stated in a statement: "The only obstacle to peace is the decision of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin to continue his war of aggression. If Ukraine stops fighting, there will be no Ukraine. Estonia's support for Ukraine remains unwavering. Now is the time for Europe to step up. We do not need to wait for other things to happen; Europe has enough resources, including frozen Russian assets, to enable Ukraine to continue fighting." Officials from Spain, Latvia, Lithuania, Germany, and Poland also voiced their support for Ukraine. This widespread support demonstrates a united front against Russian aggression.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha praised Zelenskyy, calling him a man of "courage and strength to stand up for justice." He wrote: "He defends Ukraine and the goal of a just and lasting peace. We appreciate and will appreciate in the future the support of the United States." However, not all voices were positive, with some US politicians strongly supporting their president. Republican Congressman Don Bacon said in a statement that it was "a bad day for American foreign policy," and emphasized that "Ukraine wants independence, a free market, and the rule of law, it wants to be part of the West. Russia hates us and our Western values. We should make it clear that we support freedom." This divergence in opinion reflects the complex political landscape surrounding the conflict.

Republican Congressman Mike Lawler called the meeting on X "a missed opportunity for both the United States and Ukraine," adding that "to make this public is a disaster—especially for Ukraine." Prior to the White House meeting, Zelenskyy met with a bipartisan group of senators, including Republican Senators Roger Wicker and Lindsey Graham. Neither immediately commented on the Oval Office meeting. The lack of immediate comment from these senators suggests a period of reflection and assessment following the meeting.