European leaders urge Russia for a 30-day ceasefire during visit to Ukraine’s Kyiv.
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European leaders urge Russia for a 30-day ceasefire during visit to Ukraine’s Kyiv.

European leaders urge Russia for a 30-day ceasefire during visit to Ukraine’s Kyiv.

European leaders engaged in discussions in Kyiv with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aiming to advocate for a potential 30-day ceasefire as a preliminary step towards resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia, which has persisted for three years. The visiting leaders threatened to impose “massive sanctions” on Russia should it refuse to comply.

French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer traveled to Kyiv by train from neighboring Poland, where they were subsequently joined by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Their urgent demand for a ceasefire was announced during a joint press conference alongside Zelenskyy. This comes as part of a broader coalition comprising over 30 nations committed to reinforcing Ukraine’s defenses against Russian aggression.

The proposed ceasefire, which aims to commence on Monday, would encompass a cessation of hostilities across land, sea, and air. The European leaders indicated that sanctions could escalate, targeting critical sectors such as energy and banking in Russia, if President Vladimir Putin does not yield to the proposal. Macron hinted at the possibility of deploying foreign troops as a reassurance measure, with the United States expected to spearhead the monitoring of the ceasefire, supported by European allies.

Starmer emphasized the unique responsibility borne by Russia for the conflict, stating that the path to peace is obstructed solely by Moscow’s actions. Following these frank discussions, Russian government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the European leaders’ rhetoric as confrontational rather than reconciliatory. Reports from TASS indicated that Russia would evaluate the ceasefire proposal, though it maintains its stance.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reiterated the country’s openness to a full and unconditional ceasefire for a minimum of 30 days starting Monday, underscoring readiness among Ukraine and its allies to advance peace negotiations.

In a historic first, the leaders of France, Germany, the UK, and Poland cooperatively visited Ukraine, emphasizing their commitment to seeking a just peace and encouraging Moscow to accept the ceasefire. Andriy Yermak, Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, highlighted the transition towards a peaceful resolution.

The visit comes at a time when the need for a united front is crucial, as Russian military operations continue. The leaders underscored their dedication to bolstering support for Ukraine until a durable ceasefire is achieved, thereby allowing the nation to thrive as a secure, sovereign entity within internationally recognized borders.

The joint statement concluded, urging rapid negotiation advancements to facilitate a lasting resolution, emphasizing a collective vision for peace and stability.

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