Luanda: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized on Monday the importance of Ukraine's autonomy in making decisions concerning its military forces, underscoring respect for its sovereignty. "Ukraine's territory and sovereignty must be respected. Only Ukraine, as a sovereign country, can make decisions regarding its armed forces, the choice of their destiny is in their own hands," von der Leyen stated at a joint press conference with European Council President Antonio Costa.
According to Anadolu Agency, following an informal meeting in Luanda with European leaders to discuss Ukraine and the recently announced US peace proposal, von der Leyen reiterated that there is a "solid basis" for advancing discussions. She highlighted the necessity for unity and prioritizing Ukraine's best interests, indicating that the security of the entire continent is at stake both now and in the future.
Additionally, von der Leyen announced plans to engage further with partners from the Coalition of the Willing on Tuesday. European Council President Antonio Costa emphasized that issues directly affecting the European Union, such as sanctions enlargement or immobilized assets, require comprehensive involvement and decision-making by the EU as a collective entity. Costa noted a "positive" direction in discussions and expressed readiness to support the peace process in close coordination with Ukraine, the US, and NATO.
A high-level meeting took place in Geneva on Sunday, where senior officials from the US, Ukraine, and Europe gathered to discuss a 28-point proposal aimed at advancing peace efforts in Ukraine. The US delegation was led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff, while Ukraine was represented by presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak. National security advisors from the UK, France, and Germany also participated in separate talks.
The 28-point proposal reportedly included conditions for Ukraine to cede additional territory to Russia, reduce the size of its military, and formally renounce its NATO membership aspirations.