US Prioritizes Diplomatic Solution in Ukraine, Seeks Greater European Role, Cooperation with Russia

The US administration is actively pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, aiming for a settlement that acknowledges the perspectives of all parties involved, including Russia, The Associated Press reports.

This approach was outlined by a senior US official during a visit to NATO headquarters on Wednesday.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the need for a negotiated peace settlement. He also highlighted the importance of Europe taking a leading role in securing and maintaining peace. He said that the US believes Ukraine joining NATO to be unrealistic and that Europe must now step up. Any future security guarantees should be backed by European troops, not American.

Signaling a commitment to dialogue, President Trump announced a productive conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders agreed to begin exploring a negotiated end to the conflict and tasked their teams with further discussions. This direct engagement reflects the administration’s belief that communication with all stakeholders is essential for finding a viable path to peace.

The administration is also encouraging European allies to increase their financial and military contributions to Ukraine, fostering a collaborative effort towards a peaceful resolution. Hegseth pointed out that the US is prioritizing a relationship with Europe that empowers them to take greater responsibility for their own security and emphasized the need for increased defense spending among NATO members, setting a target of 5% of GDP.

Hegseth’s remarks to the Ukraine Defense Contact Group emphasized the need for a realistic approach, suggesting that a focus on returning to pre-2014 borders might not be attainable.

UK Defense Secretary John Healey responded to Hegseth’s call for increased European involvement, stating, “We heard his call for European nations to step up. We are, and we will,” and announcing a new aid package for Ukraine.

This diplomatic push comes amid the recent release of an American citizen from Russia. The administration views this as a potentially positive development that could facilitate further cooperation. Trump said that another American, someone “very special,” would be released soon and that those events could lead to a relationship to resolve the war.