In the lead-up to pivotal talks between presidents Trump and Putin, leaders from the UK and France voiced their demands for clear peace intentions from Russia, as they emphasize the need for a halt to hostilities in Ukraine amid mounting international pressure.
Macron and UK Demand Clarity from Putin on Peace Commitment Prior to Trump Talks
Macron and UK Demand Clarity from Putin on Peace Commitment Prior to Trump Talks
As concerns mount over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, French and British leaders are urging Vladimir Putin to demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace before crucial discussions take place with Donald Trump.
As the spotlight turns to a significant phone conversation between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, both the United Kingdom and France are pressuring Russia's leader to affirm his commitment to peace regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s courageous decision to agree to a ceasefire proposal, calling for Russia to reciprocate.
"Enough deaths. Enough lives destroyed. Enough destruction. The guns must fall silent," Macron conveyed via a post on X. Meanwhile, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called for an "immediate and unconditional ceasefire," criticizing the absence of signs from Putin that he is willing to engage in a genuine peace dialogue. He added, “We have more cards to play” to potentially influence Russia's approach to negotiations.
In a contrasting tone, the White House expressed optimism before the Trump-Putin talks, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt remarking that peace in Ukraine has "never been closer." She disclosed that Trump is "committed" to facilitating progress and hinted at possible topics of discussion, including a critical power plant near the border of Russia and Ukraine.
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has been under Russian occupation since March 2022, was highlighted as a significant point of concern, especially given the ongoing fighting in the area. Trump alluded to discussions surrounding land and asset division in the negotiations, although Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the upcoming dialogues.
Putin has previously advocated for a ceasefire but has outlined conditions that complicate matters, including disputes over the Russian-controlled Kursk region, an area of previous military action by Ukraine. In the midst of the negotiations, fears about monitoring the ceasefire's implementation and the potential presence of NATO troops linger.
Recent Ukrainian and American delegates deliberated a ceasefire proposal in Saudi Arabia, suggesting a 30-day truce, which Ukraine has expressed readiness to accept. As Macron and Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney met, they reiterated their nations’ unwavering support for Ukraine and their demand for clear commitments from Russia.
