Leaders of Britain, Germany, and France support a proposal for direct talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin to secure a ceasefire, emphasizing Europe's diplomatic role in achieving a lasting peace.
The unified stance of key European leaders backing ceasefire talks signals a concerted diplomatic push to de-escalate the Russia-Ukraine conflict and pursue a negotiated peace, potentially influencing future diplomatic efforts and the conflict's trajectory.
Leaders of Britain, Germany, and France have expressed support for a proposal for talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin aimed at securing a ceasefire. The joint statement commended Zelenskiy's call for an end to the war through diplomatic means, highlighting Europe's intended role in the process. Zelenskiy, who met with the three leaders in London, also discussed the need for more air defence missiles and reiterated his proposal for face-to-face talks with Putin to end the conflict, which is now in its fifth year. Putin had previously stated the offer did not seem sincere and saw no immediate point in meeting.
The European leaders and Zelenskiy outlined conditions for a 'just and lasting peace,' beginning with an immediate and complete ceasefire. They proposed that the current line of contact serve as the basis for negotiations, with Ukraine receiving legally binding security guarantees, potentially including a multinational force. Additionally, they stated that Russian assets should remain frozen until Russia compensates Ukraine for war damages, and that any European security interests must be safeguarded. Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of a strong European voice in any negotiations.