Kathrine Frich
Conflicts rarely unfold in isolation, and political decisions made far from the battlefield often shape their course.
As debate intensifies over Washington’s proposed peace framework for Ukraine, one European lawmaker says the danger extends well beyond Kyiv’s borders.
Former Estonian general and current MEP Riho Terrass argues that the latest American initiative risks aligning with Moscow’s strategic objectives.
Rising alarm
Speaking on Euronews’ morning programme Europe Today, Terrass claimed that “Americans believe everything Putin says,” warning that many in Europe still underestimate the scale of the threat.
The MEP, a member of the European People’s Party, criticised the 28-point document drafted by the US administration.
In his view, the proposal resembles “a Russian plan to achieve Ukraine’s capitulation.”
He said he was surprised that former US President Donald Trump appeared to act as “a messenger for Putin’s capitulation plan.”
Disputed peace proposal
Details of the draft agreement leaked last week and raised significant concerns across European capitals.
Although the document has since been revised, observers say key elements — including cuts to Ukraine’s armed forces and major territorial concessions — still look like conditions Kyiv would struggle to accept.
On Sunday, US officials led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Ukrainian and European counterparts in Geneva to work through possible amendments.
Europeans hope their pressure will buy time for Ukraine and soften the most contentious demands.
European response
Addressing the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that “Russia’s aggression plan has not changed,” warning that Ukraine may not be the Kremlin’s final target.
To strengthen Kyiv’s position, EU governments are now discussing an unprecedented reparations loan linked to revenue from Russia’s frozen assets held in Belgium.
According to Euronews sources, the Commission is preparing the necessary legal text to secure Belgian approval, with publication expected soon.
The financing would cover part of Ukraine’s increased needs next year.
Call for unity
Terrass insisted that the EU has ample capacity to assist Ukraine and should do so decisively.
“Don’t tell me that the European Union, with 500 million inhabitants and a GDP of 29 trillion euros, is unable to support Ukraine,” he said.
His remarks reflect growing frustration among European policymakers who fear that a rushed or unbalanced peace deal could embolden Moscow.
For many, the debate now centres on whether Europe can influence the negotiations strongly enough to prevent outcomes they see as dangerous.
Sources: LA.LV, Euronews
