Key Facts
• On August 17, President Zelensky met EU Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels.
• Zelensky emphasized territorial issues should involve Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. in discussions.
• He stated Russia shows no willingness to join tripartite talks and called for new sanctions if Russia refuses.
• Von der Leyen stressed that borders cannot be changed through military force.
• Leaders from Germany and France, along with von der Leyen, will join Zelensky’s meeting with former U.S. President Trump on August 18.
Summary
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels on August 17, ahead of his scheduled meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelensky reiterated the importance of addressing territorial disputes through discussions involving Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S., while criticizing Russia’s reluctance to participate. He suggested imposing new sanctions if Russia continues to refuse. Von der Leyen underscored the principle that borders cannot be altered by force. Leaders from Germany and France will also attend the August 18 meeting.
