During a meeting in Paris on December 7, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump stated that Europe must shoulder the primary responsibility for supporting Ukraine and overseeing any future ceasefire agreements. This was reported by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ).
According to WSJ sources, during discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump expressed that he does not support Ukraine’s NATO membership but envisions a “strong, well-armed Ukraine” following any cessation of hostilities.
The president-elect emphasized that Europe should take the lead in protecting and supporting Ukraine. He also suggested that a ceasefire be monitored by European troops stationed in Ukraine, explicitly ruling out the presence of U.S. forces.
Additionally, WSJ reported that Trump urged European nations to do more to pressure China into influencing Russia to end war. In this context, leaders discussed the potential use of tariffs against Beijing.
Trump’s team informed The Wall Street Journal that the president-elect does not yet have a detailed plan for Ukraine. Key decisions will be made after he assembles his national security team and holds further discussions with allies – and potentially with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
