EU Summit Delivers

Ukraine Wins. Hungary Stands Out. Trump Loses.

As I began writing this story, EU leaders in Brussels had just wrapped up their discussions on Ukraine and moved on to dinner. More talks on trade, nuclear deterrence, and other issues are expected to continue late into the night. Tonight, the EU finalized its response to the growing crisis caused by the deepening alignment between Washington and Moscow.

The outcome: A unified EU strategy, minus Hungary, that rejects both Russian and U.S. efforts to dictate Ukraine’s future. The framework is now in place, and except for one minor issue, European leaders delivered on nearly every front.

The Council laid out five key principles regarding any ceasefire or negotiations between Ukraine and Russia:

• No negotiations on Ukraine without Ukraine.

• No negotiations affecting European security without Europe’s involvement. Ukraine’s, Europe’s, transatlantic, and global security are intertwined.

• Any truce or ceasefire must be part of a broader peace process.

• Any agreement must include credible security guarantees for Ukraine to deter future Russian aggression.

• Peace must respect Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Here, point by point, the EU has backed Ukraine’s demands—many of which were previously ridiculed by Washington’s power players. The very conditions that U.S. officials mocked Zelensky for—arguing he had no leverage, couldn’t ask for security guarantees, and would fail without American support—have now been embraced by Europe. The EU has flatly rejected the conditions imposed by the Trump administration and reinforced its commitment to Ukraine’s survival.

You can read the full press release here.

Both Russia and the Trump administration have been desperate to keep Europe out of these discussions. I haven’t even checked their statements because it’s obvious how they’ll frame it. But their opinions don’t matter. What matters is that, aside from Hungary, every other EU nation has stood firm, refusing to take orders from Washington or sacrifice Ukraine to appease Moscow.

How the EU Secured 26 Signatures Instead of 25

If you're wondering how the Council managed to secure 26 out of 27 votes, the answer lies in a deal with Slovakia. Ukraine’s refusal to renew its gas transit contract with Russia has put buyers like Slovakia, which relies on Russian gas, in a difficult position. To prevent division within the bloc, the EU promised to find alternative solutions for Slovakia’s energy needs, securing its vote.

There is a small chance that the EU may even ask Ukraine to resume gas transit, but that issue is secondary compared to the broader crisis. I don’t like it, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s not a major concern.

Why This Summit Matters

The European Council’s decision is critical because it represents the strongest remaining institutional support for Ukraine at a time when the U.S. and Russia appear to be aligning against Kyiv’s interests.

• Europe Rejects U.S.-Russia Backroom Deals – The EU has made it clear it will not be sidelined. The principles outlined today directly counter any attempt by Washington and Moscow to force Ukraine into a compromised settlement.

• A Long-Term Commitment to Military and Financial Aid – With Washington’s support wavering, the EU is stepping up. In 2025 alone, Europe will provide €30.6 billion, alongside military assistance including air defense systems, ammunition, and enhanced cooperation with Ukraine’s defense industry.

• Security Guarantees Beyond NATO – The EU is positioning itself as a de facto security guarantor for Ukraine, even outside NATO’s framework. The mention of Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) instruments suggests a long-term European role in Ukraine’s defense.

• Sanctions and Economic Pressure on Russia Continue – While the U.S. under a MAGA Trump administration might ease pressure on Moscow, Europe is doubling down, reinforcing sanctions and committing to further economic measures to weaken Russia’s war effort.

Europe, Not the U.S., Now Leads the West’s Response

While Washington is ready to surrender Ukraine in pursuit of a quick deal, Brussels is standing firm, committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against an unjust war. Recognizing that Kyiv may no longer be able to rely on the U.S. for arms and aid, the EU is stepping up to ensure Ukraine is not abandoned.

The "peace through strength" doctrine outlined by the EU today directly contradicts Washington and Moscow’s emerging preference for a “peace through Ukraine’s concession” approach.

The EU has sent a clear message: Ukraine will not be sacrificed for a quick deal. This summit cements Europe as the backbone of Ukraine’s resistance, ensuring that neither Moscow nor Washington can impose their terms.

---