European allies rally around Zelenskyy in Oslo as US-Russia ties strain

European allies rallied around Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during an emergency meeting in Oslo on Tuesday, following recent US actions and statements perceived as favorable to Russia. The meeting came after the US lifted sanctions and agreed to buy Russian diesel, alongside President Donald Trump's comments downplaying Russia's aggression. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Finnish President Alexander Stubb hosted Zelenskyy alongside US envoy Steve Witkoff. Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson reaffirmed Europe's commitment to sanctions, while EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas accused American negotiators of pressuring Ukraine toward capitulation. The Nordic leaders' presence was seen as ensuring Zelenskyy wasn't left alone with the US envoy. The meeting follows a pattern of strained US-Ukraine relations, including a contentious White House visit last February. War science lecturer Magnus Christiansson described the week as catastrophic for Ukraine and dark for transatlantic ties, noting Trump's open sympathy with Putin's line. Witkoff traveled to Moscow on Wednesday.