But a global divide can prove to be expensive
Venkat Raman
Auckland, March 5, 2025
Even as British Prime Minister Kier Starmer was holding talks with his European counterparts to muster support for Ukraine and its embattled Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Prime Ministers of New Zealand and Australia have expressed their solidarity with the Ukraine President.
Referring to the spat between Mr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump at the Oval Office in Washington DC on Friday (February 28) as a ‘robust exchange,” Christopher Luxon said that New Zealand remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine as it defends itself in a war that Russia started and that it is mounting the defence of a proud, democratic, sovereign nation, but also the defence of international law.
“The best route to peace is for Russia to cease its three-year-long illegal and immoral war of aggression. We all want the US and Ukraine working together towards the shared objective of a just and lasting peace for Ukraine,” Mr Luxon said.
In Canberra, Anthony Albanese reaffirmed Australia’s support for Ukraine following the debacle.
“We stand with Ukraine. The people of Ukraine are fighting not just for their own national sovereignty; they are fighting for the international rule of law. We will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes because this is the struggle of a democratic nation versus an authoritarian regime led by Vladimir Putin,” he said.
Mr Albanese did not directly comment on the altercation between Mr Zelenskyy and Mr Trump but emphasised that Australia’s foreign policy is determined independently.
New Zealand Leader of the Opposition Chris Hipkins said that the Trump-Zelenskyy meeting showed ‘volatility.’
“I have met Mr Zelenskyy; he is a very patient and resolved man. I think that he has led Ukraine with exceptional leadership over the last couple of years and I think the world community should continue to support Ukraine,” he said.
Mr Hipkins said that in his opinion, Mr Zelenskyy was not disrespectful.
New Zealand should remain committed to an international system of rules and what was happening in Ukraine was not consistent with those rules. We should continue to express our support for Ukraine,” he said.
The failed talks in Washington DC have sent ripples across Europe, prompting a flurry of diplomatic activity and discussions among European leaders. The contentious meeting, which ended abruptly with Trump accusing Zelenskyy of being ungrateful and disrespectful, has left the future of Ukraine’s security and the broader geopolitical landscape in a state of uncertainty.
The Fallout
The meeting between Mr Zelenskyy and Mr Trump was intended to secure a critical minerals deal and discuss a potential ceasefire with Russia. However, the talks quickly devolved into a heated argument, with Mr Trump demanding more gratitude from Zelenskyy for US support and insisting on a ceasefire without clear security guarantees.
Mr Zelenskyy, on the other hand, emphasised the unreliability of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the need for continued US support to ensure Ukraine’s security.
The failure of these talks has emboldened Russia, which launched a series of drone strikes on Kharkiv shortly after the meeting. This escalation has further strained the already tense situation in Ukraine and has drawn sharp reactions from European leaders.
European leaders have rallied around Zelenskyy, expressing their support for Ukraine and condemning Russia’s aggressive actions.
Mr Starmer has been particularly vocal, urging European leaders to step up their efforts to support Ukraine at a recent summit held at Lancaster House in London.
He Starmer emphasised the importance of securing a good outcome for Ukraine, stating that it is vital for the security of every nation in Europe. He called the current situation a “once-in-a-generation-moment” and stressed the need for a united front to counter Russian aggression.
The Summit, attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and others aimed to forge a common position on ending the war in Ukraine.
Diverging Opinions
While there is a consensus on the need to support Ukraine, opinions on the best course of action vary among European leaders.
French President Emmanuel Macron has advocated a diplomatic approach, stressing the need for a dialogue with Russia to achieve a lasting peace. Mr Scholz, on the other hand, has called for increased military support for Ukraine, arguing that a strong defence is necessary to deter further Russian aggression.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez have echoed Mr Scholz’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of providing Ukraine with the necessary resources to defend itself.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also expressed his support for Ukraine, underscoring the need for continued international cooperation to address the crisis.
The NATO-EU Equation
NATO and the European Union have played crucial roles in coordinating the response to the crisis in Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has reiterated the Alliance’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, stating that NATO will continue to provide military assistance and training to Ukrainian forces. The European Union, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, has also pledged to increase its support for Ukraine, both in terms of financial aid and humanitarian assistance.
The failed talks between Zelenskyy and Trump have underscored the challenges of achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. As European leaders continue to navigate this complex geopolitical landscape, their ability to present a united front and coordinate their efforts will be crucial in determining the future of Ukraine and the broader region.
Mr Starmer’s call for unity and decisive action at the recent summit reflects the urgency of the situation. As the conflict continues to escalate, the international community must remain steadfast in its support for Ukraine and work towards a sustainable and just resolution.
The developments in Europe following the failed talks between Mr Zelenskyy and Mr Trump highlight the critical importance of international cooperation and solidarity in addressing the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
The actions and decisions of European leaders in the coming months will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region and ensuring the security and stability of Europe as a whole.
