- The Nordic-Baltic Eight (Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden) reaffirmed full support for Ukraine and noted President Trump’s efforts to end the war.
- The statement says a just peace requires a ceasefire plus “credible security guarantees” for Ukraine — with no Russian veto over Kyiv’s EU or NATO path.
- Leaders pledged continued arms support and tougher sanctions; they also demanded the urgent return of abducted children, POWs, and civilian detainees.
The Big Picture
The leaders of the Nordic-Baltic Eight issued a joint statement on August 16, 2025, underscoring that “only Ukraine can make decisions concerning its future,” and backing a ceasefire paired with firm, long-term security guarantees. The statement also welcomes U.S. participation in such guarantees and rejects any limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces or its partnerships.
What’s New
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy publicly thanked the Nordic-Baltic leaders and stressed that “stopping the killing is a key element of stopping the war,” adding that Kyiv is preparing for a meeting with President Trump on Monday, August 18, to clarify next steps and align details with partners. According to Zelenskyy on X, coordination with allies is ongoing ahead of the talks.
Context
The Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8) encompasses eight closely aligned European countries that have consistently backed Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion. The Aug. 16 statement reiterates core principles: Ukraine decides its own future; borders cannot be changed by force; and any peace framework must include robust, enforceable guarantees. It also says Russia has no veto over Ukraine’s EU or NATO trajectory and calls for the immediate return of abducted children and detainees. In parallel coverage, European outlets reported the bloc’s stance as part of a wider push to keep pressure on Russia while diplomatic discussions evolve, including U.S.-led efforts. According to Reuters, the NB8 emphasized it remains “steadfast” in support of Ukraine and efforts to end the war.
What’s Next
Kyiv’s planned meeting with President Trump on Monday, Aug. 18, will focus on the mechanics of a ceasefire and the architecture of security guarantees. European capitals are expected to weigh in on verification, enforcement, and funding — including continued military aid and sanctions aimed at Russia’s war economy — to ensure any agreement is durable and deters future aggression.
The Bottom Line
Nordic-Baltic leaders are aligning around a simple formula: Ukraine-led decisions, a ceasefire backed by ironclad guarantees, and sustained pressure on Moscow. Their message to the Kremlin is unchanged — stop the killing — while their message to allies is clear: stay unified and make the guarantees real.
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