**US and UK Officials Meet to Discuss Ukraine Conflict**
In a bid to find peace in the war-torn country, US Vice-President JD Vance and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy hosted a meeting of security officials near London. The talks were called at the request of the US, with Ukrainian officials and European national security advisers attending.
**Ukrainian President Stresses No Concessions**
The meeting comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated that his country will make no territorial concessions to Russia ahead of a summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin next week. Zelensky stressed that Ukraine must be involved in any solution for peace.
**European Leaders Unite in Support**
In response to Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine may have to cede territory to end the war, several European leaders issued a joint statement reaffirming their support of Ukraine and insisting that it must be involved in any peace talks. The leaders of Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Finland, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen signed the statement, which read: “The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine.”
**No Territorial Concessions**
Zelensky has been clear that his country will not give up land to Russia, with a Telegram post saying “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier.” This stance is echoed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who said on X: “Ukraine’s future cannot be decided without the Ukrainians.”
**Peace Talks Without Ukraine?**
The possibility of Trump and Putin attempting to negotiate a peace deal without Ukraine present has raised concerns among European leaders. While Zelensky has not criticized Trump directly, his post suggests that he will not accept any deal that does not involve Ukraine.
**What’s Next?**
With the summit between Trump and Putin set for next week, many are watching with bated breath to see if a peace agreement can be reached. However, soldiers and civilians on the ground have expressed a strong desire for peace, but little evidence suggests that Ukraine is willing to accept a deal at any price.
**Expert Analysis**
This meeting highlights the deep divisions between European leaders on how to approach the conflict in Ukraine. While some, like Trump, are pushing for a solution that may involve territorial concessions, others, like Zelensky and Macron, are insisting on Ukraine’s involvement in any peace talks.
“It’s clear that Ukraine will not give up its territory without a fight,” said Dr. Emma Taylor, an expert on international relations. “Any peace agreement must be inclusive of Ukraine’s voice, or it risks being seen as illegitimate.”
**What You Need to Know**
* US Vice-President JD Vance and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy hosted a meeting of security officials near London.
* Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated that his country will make no territorial concessions to Russia ahead of a summit between Trump and Putin next week.
* Several European leaders issued a joint statement reaffirming their support for Ukraine and insisting on its involvement in any peace talks.
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