‘Coalition of the Willing:’ Russia cannot block Ukraine’s path to NATO

Russia has no right to block Ukraine’s path to NATO or the European Union, and Kyiv must receive reliable and effective security guarantees, the leaders of the “Coalition of the Willing,” a group of countries that support Ukraine emphasized.

The statement came on Aug. 13 during a virtual meeting of the coalition ahead of a planned summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Aug. 15. 

Participants included German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance.

The leaders welcomed President Trump’s efforts to put an end to the Russo-Ukrainian war that the Kremlin instigated, and achieve a just and lasting peace. 

At the same time, they stressed that meaningful negotiations are only possible if there is a ceasefire or a significant and sustained reduction in hostilities. Should Russia refuse to agree to a ceasefire in Alaska, the coalition called for stronger sanctions and expanded economic pressure on the Russian economy.

“The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine. […] International borders must not be changed by force,” the statement said.

The coalition also emphasized that Ukraine must have reliable and effective security guarantees to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

“The Coalition of the Willing is ready to play an active role, including through plans by those willing to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased,” the statement said.

Leaders said that Ukraine’s armed forces and their cooperation with third countries must face no restrictions. They confirmed their intention to continue close collaboration with Trump, the United States, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and the Ukrainian people.

Trump announced on Aug. 8 that his meeting with Kremlin despot Vladimir Putin would take place on Aug. 15 in Alaska.

Previously, the Ukrainian World Congress has welcomed President Trump’s efforts to establish peace in Ukraine but stresses that peace cannot come at the cost of the country’s sovereignty. 

The UWC calls for support of Ukraine’s right to determine its own future, defend itself, restore the international order, condemn Russian aggression, and hold Russia accountable for its crimes.