A report published by Der Spiegel reveals new details from a confidential phone call held on Monday between French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. According to the magazine, the conversation underscored deepening European unease over the direction of ongoing negotiations to end the war.
Macron Warns of Potential U.S. Betrayal
During the call, Macron allegedly warned Zelensky that the United States could ultimately “betray” Ukraine on territorial issues without providing sufficient security guarantees. The Élysée Palace has since denied that Macron used the term “betrayal,” but acknowledged that the French president raised concerns about the reliability of Washington’s commitments.
Merz Urges Extreme Caution
Merz reportedly reinforced Macron’s message, cautioning Zelensky to be “extremely careful in the coming days.” He added that “they are playing games — with you and with us,” a remark understood to reference Steve Witkoff, the special envoy of President Donald Trump, and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, both of whom are involved in the ongoing negotiations.
European Leaders Unite to Protect Ukraine
According to Der Spiegel, Stubb intervened as well, telling the participants: “We cannot leave Ukraine and Volodymyr alone with these two men.” Rutte backed him, saying: “I agree with Alexander, we need to protect Volodymyr.”
Growing Distrust in Washington
The exchanges, as described in the leaked transcript, paint a picture of mounting distrust within Europe regarding Washington’s strategy and intentions. They also suggest that key European leaders fear Kyiv may be pressured into concessions without adequate guarantees — a scenario they believe would jeopardize both Ukraine’s security and Europe’s broader stability.
