Left Party leader Jan van Aken expressed deep skepticism about the role of the United States in the Ukraine conflict following the summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“Since last night, it should be clear to everyone in Europe: Donald Trump does not care about Ukraine,” van Aken said on Saturday in an interview with ARD’s Morgenmagazin. “Trump only thinks about himself and about U.S. interests.”
He added that any expectation that Trump might push forward a peace initiative for Ukraine must now be abandoned. “The idea that Europe could still influence Washington, or Trump personally, to find a solution is over,” van Aken stated.
According to him, new strategies are urgently needed to bring the Kremlin to serious negotiations. Powerful partners of Russia could play a decisive role, he argued, pointing specifically to China. “China is Russia’s partner and also wants the war to end,” he noted.
Referring to recent video conferences between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and other European leaders, van Aken urged more frequent talks. “Why not hold another such meeting next week?” he asked. “But this time, Europe should call Beijing instead of Washington.”
The two leaders subsequently called the meeting "productive," but did not comment on the details of their discussions.
From breaking news to thought-provoking opinion pieces, our newsletter keeps you informed & engaged.
