**Trump’s Peace Push with Putin Alarms Eastern Europe**
US President Donald Trump’s sudden announcement of peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin has left many in Central-Eastern Europe and the Baltic states stunned. This move comes as Ukraine faces a critical shortage of manpower on multiple fronts, forcing Ukrainian troops to withdraw from settlements.
**No Ukrainian Involvement?**
Trump said his team would start negotiations immediately and inform Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of the conversation. However, this has raised concerns that Ukraine may not be involved in the talks at all. The new White House administration is pushing for a quick end to the war, which is now in its fourth year.
**Criticism from Eastern Europe**
Leaders from Central-Eastern European nations and the Baltic states have spoken out against Trump’s move. They argue that the best way to ensure European security is by pumping more military aid into Ukraine and strengthening its positions. Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuania’s former foreign minister, said: “The main question now is: can Europe offer real security guarantees to Ukraine? Can Europe resist agreeing to an agreement between Putin and Trump?”
**Fear of European Inaction**
Landsbergis expressed concern that Europe may not be able to take the lead in this situation. He said that if Europe fails to act, it will be a “battle lost” for Ukraine, and a victory for Russia’s President Putin.
**Leaders Will Meet at Munich Security Conference**
World leaders will gather at the annual Munich Security Conference on February 14, where the war in Ukraine is expected to top the agenda. The conference will provide an opportunity for leaders to discuss their views on Trump’s negotiation drive to end the war.
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