Nordic–Baltic Back Zelenskyy as Trump’s Plan Alarms Europe
Nordic joint statement in support of Ukraine. (Image X.com)
NB8 warns “Europe’s security is at stake,” vows more arms and sanctions for Kyiv amid growing unease over Donald Trump’s proposed Ukraine peace blueprint.
By TRH Foreign Affairs Desk
New Delhi, November 23, 2025 — The leaders of the Nordic–Baltic Eight (NB8) on Saturday issued a forceful joint statement backing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and warning that Europe’s long-term security hinges on Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian aggression. The declaration followed a call with Zelenskyy and came amid rising European anxieties over US President Donald Trump’s controversial 28-point “peace plan” for the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
“We have from the outset of Russia’s war of aggression stood by Ukraine’s side and we will continue to do so,” the NB8 leaders said. “This is not only about Ukrainian security, it is also about the wider security of Europe.”
The group—comprising Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden—praised Ukraine’s readiness to engage in negotiations and Zelenskyy’s willingness to work with a US-prepared draft framework. Kyiv, they emphasised, has “continuously shown that it is serious about peace.”
Russia, however, “has so far not committed to a ceasefire or any steps leading to peace,” the leaders noted, accusing Moscow of intensifying strikes on civilians and critical infrastructure.
The statement underscores a growing divide between Europe’s insistence on a Ukrainian-led peace process and Trump’s proposed plan circulating in European capitals. Trump’s blueprint calls for a Russian–Ukrainian non-aggression pact, a halt to NATO expansion, and security guarantees for Kyiv—provisions that European officials fear could legitimise Russian territorial claims, dilute NATO’s deterrence posture, and impose a de facto freeze of the conflict.
Several European diplomats privately warn that Trump’s plan risks “rewarding aggression” and could leave Eastern Europe exposed to future coercion, especially if NATO’s open-door policy is curtailed.
In contrast, the NB8 reiterated that any solution must “respect Ukraine’s sovereignty” and enhance long-term security for both Ukraine and Europe. The leaders pledged continued military aid, deeper regional defence integration, and stronger sanctions to “deter further Russian aggression.”
“As long as Russia continues its war against Ukraine, we will support strengthening sanctions and wider economic measures,” they said.
The joint message closed with a direct address to Ukrainians: “Your resolve, determination and courage has been truly admirable. You are not alone and can count on our support.”
The statement underscores Europe’s determination to maintain its own strategic line—one that aligns closely with Kyiv’s positions—even as geopolitical uncertainty rises with Trump’s re-emergence on the world stage.
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