As the world’s eyes turn to the much-anticipated summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska, the leaders of Nordic and Baltic countries have made their stance unmistakably clear: “There can be no peace without Ukraine.”
A United Front for Ukrainian Sovereignty
In a powerful joint statement issued on August 10, 2025, the heads of state and government from Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. They condemned Russia’s “illegal war of aggression” and made it clear that any negotiations or effort toward peace must fundamentally include Ukraine as a primary party at the table.
“The path to peace cannot be charted without Ukraine’s voice. No decisions on Ukraine without Ukraine, and no decisions on Europe without Europe. The Nordic–Baltic Eight will remain at Ukraine’s side, united in purpose and resolute in defence of our security,” the statement read.
Why the Statement Now?
This declaration comes just days before Trump and Putin are set to meet in Alaska to discuss an end to the war — meetings from which Ukraine, so far, is not a formal participant. Amid concerns that deals could be struck over Ukraine’s future without Kyiv’s direct involvement, the message from the Nordic and Baltic capitals is a sharp rebuke to any diplomatic manoeuvring that might sidestep Ukraine’s interests.
Leaders in the region, backed by several European nations, have emphasized:
- Diplomatic solutions must safeguard Ukraine’s and Europe’s security interests
- International borders cannot be changed by force
- Sustained diplomatic, military, and financial support for Ukraine will continue for as long as necessary
- Peace talks require a ceasefire, and Russia must halt attacks on civilians and infrastructure
Robust and Continued Support
The Nordic-Baltic countries have been at the forefront of supporting Ukraine, contributing billions in military, financial, and humanitarian aid. Their latest pledge includes escalated assistance, investment in Ukraine’s defence industry, and training for Ukrainian forces.
Additionally, these nations are clear in their intent to maintain and intensify sanctions on Russia for as long as hostilities continue, arguing that only sustained pressure — alongside unwavering support for Ukraine — can force Moscow to the negotiating table in good faith.
Europe Speaks with One Voice
The Nordic-Baltic leaders’ message is echoed by a broader coalition of European countries and the European Union, which have likewise insisted that peace “cannot be decided without Ukraine.” Several EU leaders have openly criticized any U.S.-Russia initiative that would seek to negotiate over Ukrainian territory — responding directly to ideas floated by President Trump about possible “territory swapping” as part of a deal.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also firmly rejected any settlement that would involve ceding territory to Russia, underscoring that “Ukraine will not gift their land to the occupier.”
Conclusion: “No One But Ukraine Decides Ukraine’s Future”
As talks between Putin and Trump approach, the Nordic and Baltic leaders’ statement rings as a warning and a promise: any peace plan for Ukraine devised without Ukraine at the table — or at the expense of its territorial integrity — is a nonstarter for northern and eastern Europe.
Their unified position underscores that only an inclusive process, with Ukraine at its heart, can lay groundwork for a just and durable peace — and that European security depends on it.