Mon Feb 24 09:05:14 UTC 2025: ## EU Shows Solidarity with Ukraine on War Anniversary as Trump’s Peace Push Faces Resistance

**Kyiv, Ukraine/New York, NY** – Leaders from the European Union and Canada joined Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Monday to mark the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, showcasing unwavering support amidst growing uncertainty surrounding US involvement. The visit comes as a proposed US-brokered peace deal, championed by former President Donald Trump, faces staunch opposition from both Russia and Ukraine.

Zelenskyy hailed the “heroism” of the Ukrainian people, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the existential stakes for Europe in Ukraine’s fight for survival. The EU is set to hold a special summit on March 6th to discuss further support for Ukraine and European defense, following the approval of a 16th package of sanctions against Russia (though Hungary has indicated it will not support further sanctions or military aid increases).

The absence of a US representative in Kyiv highlights the strained relationship between Washington and Kyiv, exacerbated by Trump’s push for a swift ceasefire, a proposal Russia has deemed “unacceptable.” Moscow’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov warned that a ceasefire without a comprehensive settlement would only lead to renewed conflict.

Meanwhile, competing resolutions are slated for a vote at the UN General Assembly. Ukraine’s resolution calls for a complete Russian withdrawal, while the US proposal focuses on ending the war without explicitly condemning Russia’s aggression. Trump’s plan, perceived by some as a self-serving attempt at brokering a deal, is encountering resistance on all sides.

Despite recent tensions, signs of easing relations between Kyiv and Washington emerged. Ukraine reported that a controversial proposal giving the US $500 billion in profits from Ukrainian rare minerals has been withdrawn, and negotiations on a new agreement are underway. Zelenskyy even pledged to resign if it secured peace, going so far as to offer his position in exchange for NATO membership for Ukraine. The coming weeks promise further developments in this complex and evolving situation.

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