UK, France, Ukraine push for peace plan
London
The United Kingdom, France, and Ukraine are working on a ceasefire proposal to present to the United States, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced. He stressed that U.S. security guarantees are vital for any lasting peace in Ukraine.
"I've always been clear that this will need a U.S. backstop because a peace deal wouldn't be a real guarantee without it," Starmer stated. He urged European nations willing to support Ukraine to step forward but emphasized that U.S. involvement is necessary to prevent further Russian aggression.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned that Russia could expand its military actions beyond Ukraine if not stopped. He suggested that Moldova or even Romania could be at risk. "We have an overarmed and aggressive Russia on our borders," Macron told French media. He insisted that the U.S. must recognize that disengagement from Ukraine is against its interests.
Starmer revealed that he and Macron are leading talks on the ceasefire plan, which they intend to discuss with U.S. officials. The proposal aims to create conditions for a stable peace settlement in Ukraine.
During a meeting in London, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Starmer’s continued support. He described their conversation as “meaningful and warm” and confirmed discussions on security, international cooperation, and achieving lasting peace.
The initiative comes as European leaders seek a united front to counter Russian aggression while ensuring long-term stability in the region.
Kremlin says new U.S. administration shares vision
Moscow
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the new Donald Trump administration's vision "largely coincides" with Russia's, as it shifts U.S. foreign policy. Trump has voiced strong support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and suggested ending the Ukraine conflict without Ukraine's involvement. A former Russian diplomat, Vyacheslav Matuzov, argued that European leaders disagree on the next steps for Ukraine and should align more closely with Trump's stance for a peaceful resolution. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced efforts with France and Ukraine to present a peace plan to the U.S.