Western leaders are signaling a shift in their approach to Ukraine, with recent meetings in Washington sparking optimism among Ukrainian officials. The prospect of robust security guarantees, akin to a mutual defense pact, is now being seriously discussed, with Donald Trump offering commitments that previous leaders had avoided. This marks a potential end to decades of ambiguity surrounding Ukraine's sovereignty and its place in Europe, as the country moves closer to Western alliances and possible membership in the European Union.

However, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges. Vladimir Putin's demands for control over the Donbas region are seen as unacceptable by Ukraine, whose forces continue to defend their territory fiercely. European leaders emphasize that while international guarantees are crucial, the true defenders of Ukraine's security are its own armed forces. The article argues that only increased military and economic pressure on Russia will force Putin to reconsider his position and bring about a genuine resolution to the conflict.

The evolving stance of Western powers, particularly the United States, is reshaping the geopolitical landscape. If successful, these new guarantees could secure Ukraine's independence and foster its integration into Western institutions, but much depends on the resolve of European nations and the willingness to confront Russian aggression.