A recent meeting of European leaders in Kyiv focused on establishing a 30-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, calling for unity and peace talks amid escalating tensions.
European Leaders Urge for a 30-Day Ceasefire Between Russia and Ukraine
European Leaders Urge for a 30-Day Ceasefire Between Russia and Ukraine
European nations collaborate on a ceasefire proposal as they visit Kyiv to show support for Ukraine.
During a significant visit to Kyiv, leaders from Poland, the UK, France, and Germany engaged in discussions with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky about a proposed 30-day ceasefire aimed at opening avenues for peace negotiations. The meeting came as part of the efforts of the "coalition of the willing," which aims to reinforce future peace agreements with security commitments. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the coalition backed a "full and unconditional" ceasefire first suggested by former US President Donald Trump, with assurances of further sanctions against Russia if violated.
The presence of high-level officials, including the UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Polish PM Donald Tusk, and new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in Kyiv was a powerful symbol of solidarity against Russia’s aggression. They asserted their joint commitment to resisting the "barbaric and illegal" invasion by Russia. The coalition called on Russia to adhere to a full and unconditional ceasefire to facilitate meaningful discussions towards a lasting peace.
Amid ongoing conflicts, a previous 30-hour ceasefire declared unilaterally by Putin was set to conclude shortly. However, reports indicated a continuation of violence, with the Ukrainian police reporting civilian casualties and property damage due to Russian attacks, despite Moscow's assurances of a temporary ceasefire.
As the discussions in Kyiv proceeded, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed their indifference towards potential sanctions, while former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev dismissed the peace proposals outright. Leaders joining the discussions remotely included Italy’s PM Giorgia Meloni and Canada’s PM Mark Carney, emphasizing the collective call for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
