Renew Europe's President Valérie Hayer rejected the notion of using Ukraine as a bargaining chip during her visit to Helsinki for a security mission. Speaking against US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s suggestion, Hayer stated, “Ukraine is not a bargaining chip, and Iran's war is not our war.”
Rubio had indicated that if Europe refuses to assist the US in its conflict with Iran, particularly in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Washington might scale back its involvement in the peace process for Ukraine. However, Hayer argued that such a move would be ‘a huge mistake,’ emphasizing that Russia remains the primary threat to Europe.
European and Ukrainian officials agree that US leadership is crucial for a robust peace deal in Ukraine. Hayer clarified that European efforts in the Strait of Hormuz are driven by energy security concerns, not merely to support US interests.