The European paradox was once again on full display ahead of the crucial summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, which is due to be held in Alaska on Friday, August 15. The European Union's 27 member states, though they are essential to implementing any hypothetical peace plan in Ukraine, have found themselves following the US administration's lead, as it proves impulsive and eager to end the drawn-out conflict.

An extraordinary video meeting of EU foreign ministers was planned for Monday, August 11, so that they could formally reaffirm their shared positions. The summit between the US president and his Russian counterpart, however, remains shrouded in uncertainty, with its format, the possible presence of other participants and even the outline of the deal being unknown factors.

After another visit to Moscow by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, during which Putin reportedly showed some slight tactical openness to negotiations, US Vice President JD Vance traveled to the United Kingdom on August 9. He was received at Chevening, in Kent, by British Foreign Minister David Lammy, with whom he has an excellent relationship. Andriy Yermak, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff, was there representing Ukraine. Senior diplomats from major EU countries were also present.

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