Amid ongoing violence in Ukraine, President Zelensky implores US and European nations to unite in urging Russia towards an unconditional ceasefire, as casualties rise from recent attacks.
Zelensky Calls on US and Europe to Intensify Pressure on Russia for Ceasefire
Zelensky Calls on US and Europe to Intensify Pressure on Russia for Ceasefire
Ukrainian President urges transatlantic leaders to advocate for an end to hostilities during high-level Paris talks.
In a significant gathering in Paris, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed to leaders from the US and Europe, including French President Emmanuel Macron and US diplomats, to increase pressure on Russia in order to facilitate a ceasefire in Ukraine. The meeting, described as the highest level of engagement regarding the ongoing war since prior to February, follows escalating violence that has seen numerous civilian fatalities.
Hosted by President Macron, discussions included US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, alongside Ukraine’s national security advisors and European counterparts. The urgency of the talks was underscored by a tragic Russian missile strike that reportedly killed at least 35 people in the Ukrainian city of Sumy, along with recent attacks in Kryvyi Rih and Dnipro claiming additional lives, including that of a child.
During the talks, Zelensky expressed that Russia is exploiting every moment to continue its assault, calling on the gathered leaders to advocate strongly for a ceasefire agreement. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha highlighted discussions that centered on establishing a lasting peace, which included considerations for multinational security guarantees for Ukraine.
Despite these efforts, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the Paris discussions, suggesting that European leaders are engaged in prolonging the conflict. European diplomats have indicated a desire for the US to adopt a firmer stance against Russia, reflecting the overall sentiment that the time for strong actions is paramount to curtail ongoing violence.
In earlier remarks, Witkoff commented that President Putin showed some openness towards discussions on permanent peace, although Moscow rejected a recent ceasefire proposal agreed upon with the US and Ukraine. As the dialogue continues, Zelensky remains firm in his stance that Ukraine must be a key player in negotiations regarding any peace settlement.
Tensions have been further strained between Trump and Zelensky amidst criticisms regarding negotiated peace efforts, with Trump previously claimed he could resolve the situation in just 24 hours — a claim that has been met with skepticism by many observers. The situation remains delicate, underscoring the pressing need for collaboration and resolution as civilian casualties continue to mount from ongoing hostilities.
Hosted by President Macron, discussions included US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, alongside Ukraine’s national security advisors and European counterparts. The urgency of the talks was underscored by a tragic Russian missile strike that reportedly killed at least 35 people in the Ukrainian city of Sumy, along with recent attacks in Kryvyi Rih and Dnipro claiming additional lives, including that of a child.
During the talks, Zelensky expressed that Russia is exploiting every moment to continue its assault, calling on the gathered leaders to advocate strongly for a ceasefire agreement. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha highlighted discussions that centered on establishing a lasting peace, which included considerations for multinational security guarantees for Ukraine.
Despite these efforts, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the Paris discussions, suggesting that European leaders are engaged in prolonging the conflict. European diplomats have indicated a desire for the US to adopt a firmer stance against Russia, reflecting the overall sentiment that the time for strong actions is paramount to curtail ongoing violence.
In earlier remarks, Witkoff commented that President Putin showed some openness towards discussions on permanent peace, although Moscow rejected a recent ceasefire proposal agreed upon with the US and Ukraine. As the dialogue continues, Zelensky remains firm in his stance that Ukraine must be a key player in negotiations regarding any peace settlement.
Tensions have been further strained between Trump and Zelensky amidst criticisms regarding negotiated peace efforts, with Trump previously claimed he could resolve the situation in just 24 hours — a claim that has been met with skepticism by many observers. The situation remains delicate, underscoring the pressing need for collaboration and resolution as civilian casualties continue to mount from ongoing hostilities.
