Europe Asia News

After discussions at the G20 summit in South Africa, von der Leyen outlined several red lines in response to proposals put forward by President Donald Trump’s administration. The American plan suggests Ukraine should cede territory to Moscow, cut its army size by half, and give Washington 50% of reconstruction profits.

“Any credible and sustainable peace plan must first and foremost stop the carnage and end the war, but it must not sow the seeds of a future conflict,” she said.

According to the Commission President, the EU has three essential criteria for any peace deal: “First, borders cannot be changed by force. Second, as a sovereign nation, Ukraine cannot have restrictions placed on its armed forces that would leave it vulnerable to future attacks and endanger Europe’s security.”

“Third, the European Union’s central role in securing peace for Ukraine must be fully reflected,” she added. “Ukraine must retain the freedom to choose its destiny and its sovereign rights. They chose Europe.”

Allies held crisis talks during the summit, and EU leaders are expected to continue consultations on Monday during their joint visit to Angola. European Council President António Costa welcomed U.S. efforts to end the war but cautioned that the current proposal is only “a basis that will require additional work.”