Ukraine and its Western allies are reportedly preparing to propose an “unconditional ceasefire” as part of a coordinated effort, potentially resulting in new sanctions against Russia if rejected by the Kremlin. Sources informed the Financial Times that the proposal is nearing finalization with the United States.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for a comprehensive ceasefire across all domains, highlighting the feasibility of monitoring this effort with U.S. coordination. He suggested that should Russia dismiss this ceasefire, enhanced sanctions may target its energy and banking sectors, including oil and fossil fuels.
Preparations for a significant 17th package of EU sanctions are underway, to be aligned with measures from the UK, Norway, and the United States. This initiative coincides with visits to Kyiv by leaders from France, Germany, Poland, and the UK.
Germany’s new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, joined French President Emmanuel Macron and the British and Polish prime ministers, Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Tusk, marking the group’s first visit since Merz’s appointment.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha noted a productive discussion with Donald Trump regarding peace efforts. While Trump’s administration has shown hesitance towards additional sanctions, sources indicate a shift in Washington’s stance.
Recently, Trump expressed concerns that Russian President Vladimir Putin might be manipulating the situation. He stated that should Russia not comply with the ceasefire, further U.S. sanctions would follow.
The European leaders’ visit aims to demonstrate Western solidarity with Zelenskyy amidst Putin’s hosting of Chinese and Brazilian leaders at Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations. The leaders issued a statement calling for a 30-day ceasefire to boost U.S.-led peace negotiations and urged Russia to cease obstructive actions.
During a virtual meeting in Kyiv with the so-called “coalition of the willing” — which includes discussions on supporting Ukraine’s defenses and military rebuilding — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged the challenges of maintaining U.S. involvement.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed conditions that military dynamics must change for a ceasefire, arguing against Western arms deliveries to Ukraine. Peskov suggested that halting such aid would benefit Russia strategically.
In earlier responses, Russia’s President Putin has declined similar ceasefire proposals while continuing military actions. European leaders reiterated their readiness to back negotiations and consider how a ceasefire could contribute to a comprehensive peace agreement.
The EU, backed by all its members, recently called for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, asserting that the onus lies on Russia to demonstrate its commitment to peace. In support of accountability, EU foreign ministers visiting Lviv backed a tribunal to prosecute Russian officials for war crimes in Ukraine, in collaboration with the Council of Europe.
