Europe backs Ukraine as Zelensky repels concessions

European leaders have rallied in support of Ukraine after a defiant Volodymyr Zelensky rejected Donald Trump's suggestion that a peace plan may involve giving up land to Russia.

- KATE DEVLIN WHITEHALL EDITOR

The US president, who is set to meet Russian president Vladimir Putin next Friday in Alaska as he seeks to bring an end to the war, has said the talks could include "some swapping of territories".

But an angry President Zelensky hit back yesterday, insisting Ukraine "will not give Russia any awards for what it has done" and that "Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier".

Members of the so-called coalition of the willing - countries which have pledged support for Ukraine against Russia's aggression - were quick to show their support, insisting that any deal must include Ukraine and Europe, warning its security is "at stake".

The joint leaders' statement from the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Finland and the European Commission said: "We share the conviction that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine's and Europe's vital security interests.

"Ukraine has the freedom of choice over its own destiny.