Leaders Stand United in Kyiv with Powerful Message to Kremlin
In a unprecedented joint trip to Kyiv, the leaders of the UK, France, Germany, and Poland stood together with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in presenting a firm ultimatum to Vladimir Putin, sign a complete and unconditional 30-day ceasefire by Monday or risk intensified sanctions and more weapons aid to Ukraine. The leaders also consulted with former US President Donald Trump in a collective call prior to their release. “Russia must end its illegal invasion,” they said in a collective statement.
Ceasefire Must Be Comprehensive
Zelenskyy insisted the planned ceasefire must cover air, sea, and land. If Russia doesn’t agree, the western alliance threatens to enforce stronger sanctions, most specifically on Russia’s banking and energy industries. Although Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov said Russia has good feelings toward a ceasefire, he indicated it should factor in some “nuances.”
Unified Front and Long-Term Support
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke of international unity on Ukraine, declaring, “There’s only one country that stands between peace, and that’s Russia.” He called out to Putin to make the VE Day ceasefire a permanent ceasefire. Starmer also pointed to work to bolster the economy of Ukraine, such as restarting flights.
Push for Direct Negotiations
French President Emmanuel Macron made an appeal for the direct dialogue of Ukraine and Russia if there’s a cessation of hostilities, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz threatened stiffer sanctions should Moscow not play along. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen corroborated these threats by stating the EU stands poised to ratchet up pressure.
NATO Reaffirms Commitment
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reaffirmed the alliance’s strong commitment after a “coalition of the willing” appeal with Kyiv, reinforcing the group’s dedication to Ukraine’s sovereignty and ongoing defense.
