Defending the World Order: Europe Rallies Against Trump’s Ukraine Plan

In a move that transcends the current conflict, European leaders are in Washington to defend the principles of the post-war world order. Their immediate goal is to support Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy against a coercive “peace plan” from Donald Trump, but their broader mission is to uphold the idea that national borders cannot be changed by force.
This “bodyguard” mission for Zelenskyy is a stand against a deal that would reportedly see Ukraine cede territory to Russia, effectively rewarding aggression. The European allies see this as a dangerous precedent that could unravel decades of international stability.
The delegation is making the case that respect for sovereignty is paramount. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has made “territorial integrity” his mantra, a direct challenge to the foundation of Trump’s proposal. He is supported by French President Emmanuel Macron, who argues that a lasting settlement cannot be achieved by placating an aggressor who shows no genuine interest in peace.
They are joined by institutional leaders like the EU’s Ursula von der Leyen, who advocates for a strong, independent Ukraine, and NATO’s Mark Rutte, whose alliance is built on the principle of collective defense. Their united presence is a powerful message that the core tenets of international law are not up for negotiation.