Sat Feb 15 01:32:56 UTC 2025: ## US Assures Ukraine of Lasting Peace Amid Trump’s Push for Russia Talks
**Munich, Germany** – US Vice President J.D. Vance reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to securing a lasting peace in Ukraine during a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday. The meeting comes amidst concerns over President Donald Trump’s announced efforts to broker a peace deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin, raising fears of a potential unfavorable agreement for Ukraine.
Vance stated that the US aims for a durable peace, not one that leaves Eastern Europe vulnerable to future conflict. He emphasized ongoing discussions with Zelenskyy to achieve this goal. Zelenskyy, echoing Vance’s sentiments, confirmed productive talks and announced a forthcoming visit from a US envoy to Kyiv.
Trump’s recent call with Putin, agreeing to peace talks, has rattled Ukraine and its allies. While US officials insist Zelenskyy will be involved in negotiations, concerns remain that Ukraine might be sidelined. Zelenskyy himself stated his willingness to meet with Putin, but only after agreeing on a common plan with Trump.
Vance assured that the US is prepared to pressure Russia and called on Europe to strengthen its own defenses. However, mixed signals from US officials, including Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth’s apparent dismissal of Ukraine’s NATO aspirations and complete territorial reclamation, have fueled anxieties about a potentially disadvantageous deal for Ukraine.
Despite these concerns, Vance stated that Trump would put all options on the table, including potential military leverage against Russia. He avoided addressing the Ukraine conflict directly in his keynote speech, focusing instead on criticism of Europe’s immigration policies and free speech.
Saudi Arabia has offered to host potential talks between Trump and Putin. European allies, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have demanded inclusion in any negotiations impacting European security. Macron affirmed that only Ukrainians should drive the peace process with Russia.
In a bid to secure US support, Ukraine is reportedly exploring granting access to its rare mineral deposits in exchange for future security guarantees. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen warned that forcing Ukraine into an unfavorable deal would harm US interests.
While Vance reiterated calls for Europe to increase its defense spending, he did not announce any major US troop reductions in Europe. However, he met with Alice Weidel, leader of Germany’s far-right AfD party, amid Vance’s criticism of Germany’s handling of the far-right in upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy reported a Russian drone strike on a radiation containment structure at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, though radiation levels remained normal. He described the attack as evidence that Russia is not preparing for negotiations.
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