In a pivotal moment, leaders from Poland, the UK, France, and Germany call for peace talks alongside Ukraine's President Zelensky to establish a ceasefire with Russia.
Trump Engages with European Leaders on 30-Day Ukraine Ceasefire
Trump Engages with European Leaders on 30-Day Ukraine Ceasefire
European leaders reach out to Trump to negotiate a ceasefire in Ukraine as tensions continue to rise.
The leaders of Poland, the UK, France, and Germany held discussions with US President Donald Trump to propose a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, set to begin next Monday. The conversation occurred during a significant visit to Kyiv, where President Zelensky welcomed the European coalition in person. Notably, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed firm support for a "full and unconditional" ceasefire, initially proposed by Trump, cautioning that the EU stands ready to enact "further biting sanctions" if Russia disregards the peace agreement.
The meeting served as a symbolic counter to over 20 leaders gathered in Moscow with Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the United Nations' ongoing efforts to foster solidarity in Ukraine amid escalating conflict. In their joint statement, the coalition leaders declared their steadfast commitment to “standing in Kyiv in solidarity with Ukraine against Russia's barbaric and illegal full-scale invasion.” They urged an unconditional 30-day ceasefire to pave the way for meaningful peace discussions.
The backdrop of this coalition is a recent 30-hour ceasefire called by Putin to commemorate Russia's Victory Day, which, though temporarily reducing hostilities, has sparked accusations from both sides regarding violations. The "coalition of the willing" has outlined its intentions to support any future peace agreement, potentially involving troop placements in Ukraine.
In light of the discussions, Trump reaffirmed his call for a ceasefire during a conversation with Zelensky, emphasizing that failure to uphold this agreement would result in additional sanctions from the US and its allies. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov downplayed the threat of sanctions, indicating that Russia is well-prepared for their consequences. Contrarily, Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president, dismissed the peace proposals put forth by European leaders, signaling a continued resistance to negotiations.
Adding to the ongoing turmoil, reports of Russian military actions persist across Ukraine, despite claims of a temporary ceasefire. Ukrainian authorities reported casualties and damages in various regions including Sumy and Kherson, indicating that the fighting continues unabated even amid diplomatic efforts for peace.
