Munich Security Conference ends after intense talks on Russia-Ukraine conflict

The three-day Munich Security Conference concluded on Sunday following high-level discussions on global security issues, particularly the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Intense discussions about peace talks with Russia, and US Vice President JD Vance’s controversial remarks about Europe, have dominated the conference.

The 61st annual flagship conference was attended by over 50 heads of state and government, as well as 150 ministers from around the world.

On Friday, the conference kicked off with an opening statement by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who urged caution, warning the US against hastily entering peace talks with Russia over Ukraine, which could have far-reaching consequences for allies.

The day continued with discussions on a number of key issues, including global security challenges and democratic resilience, during talks by high-level speakers.

However, Vance’s speech made the headlines on the first day because he emphasised the need for Europe to play a more prominent role in its security while criticising European politicians, institutions, and courts for what he sees as a departure from democratic principles.

Some European politicians reacted negatively to his remarks.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict was also a top agenda item at the conference, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warning against any peace agreement without Kyiv’s involvement, as US President Donald Trump agreed with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to “immediately” begin negotiations to end the three-year-long war.

In a joint statement, leaders of Nordic-Baltic countries reiterated that Ukraine and Europe must play a central role in any negotiations aimed at securing a just and lasting peace.

In the coming week, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and senior Russian representatives are reportedly set to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss an end to the war. Additionally, a meeting between Trump and Putin is to be prepared in the Arab kingdom.

According to Politico, no European representatives are expected to be present at next week’s talks in Saudi Arabia. Citing a Ukrainian official, the US magazine reported that Ukraine will also not send representatives there.