The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) welcomes President Trump’s stated intention to help secure peace for Ukraine. Any genuine effort to end Russia’s brutal war of aggression and restore stability to Europe is commendable. We call on President Trump to stand unequivocally with the Ukrainian people, who have endured an unjustified war of occupation, destruction, and human suffering on a scale unseen in Europe since World War II.
As Paul Grod, President of the UWC, stated:
“Peace cannot be negotiated at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty. The path forward must reinforce Ukraine’s right to determine its own future, protect its people, and uphold the rules-based international order.”
Vladimir Putin has shown no willingness to seek peace. His nightly bombing of Ukrainian cities and civilians continues, and his declared goal remains the destruction of the Ukrainian nation and the occupation of its territory. President Trump must approach any talks from a position of strength, recognizing Russia as an adversary—not a partner. Anything less will embolden Putin.
Russia cannot be trusted. It has violated every international agreement relating to Ukraine and will do so again. The UWC, together with our member organizations such as the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America and our global partners, will vigilantly call out Russia’s attempts to trick the United States or the international community into conceding Ukraine’s sovereignty. Russia must be punished and held accountable for its crimes, not rewarded. We fully support President Zelensky’s recent call for strength and unity in confronting Russian aggression.
Guided by our nine-point position, as outlined in the Appeal of the Ukrainian World Congress and the European Congress of Ukrainians to World Leaders, and in alignment with recent statements from the Nordic-Baltic Eight and European leaders, we stress:
- Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine – Ukraine must be a full and equal participant in any negotiations. Nothing about security in Europe without Europeans – European states must participate in any negotiations on the restoration of Europe’s security architecture.
- Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity – All internationally recognized borders must be restored.
- Ceasefire before talks – Diplomatic engagement requires a verifiable halt to hostilities.
- Enforceable security guarantees – Ukraine must have the means and assurances to defend itself.
- Sustained international support – Peace talks must be matched with ongoing, meaningful military, economic, and political backing.
- Sanctions until withdrawal and accountability – Sanctions must remain until Russia fully withdraws and is held to account.
- Prosecution for war crimes – Those responsible for atrocities must face full legal accountability in international courts.
- Reparations and restitution – Russia must pay for the destruction of Ukraine and provide restitution to the families of those killed and wounded in the war.
- Return of abducted children and POWs – The immediate return of over 20,000 illegally kidnapped Ukrainian children and the release of thousands of civilian and military prisoners of war.
- Free and fair post-war democracy – Elections only in a secure, occupation-free Ukraine.
- Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security – A strong Ukraine strengthens the democratic world.
We urge President Trump, the United States, and all democratic allies to unite behind these principles. Lasting peace requires strength, justice, and unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty.
