World Leaders Demand Proof of Peace Efforts from Putin Ahead of Critical Talks

As Trump and Putin prepare for talks, leaders from the UK and France press Russia to demonstrate genuine intentions for peace in Ukraine, while Trump's administration expresses optimism about a potential deal.

In the lead up to anticipated phone discussions between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, leaders from the UK and France have sharpened their calls for Russia to take tangible steps demonstrating a genuine desire for peace in Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron applauded Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's bravery in accepting a ceasefire proposal and urged Russia to reciprocate. In a post on X, Macron emphasized, "Enough deaths. Enough lives destroyed. Enough destruction. The guns must fall silent."

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy echoed these sentiments, urging Putin to consent to a "full and unconditional ceasefire now" and adding that he had seen “no sign” of serious commitment from Russia towards negotiations. He warned that the UK and its allies still possess significant leverage to compel Russia to engage in meaningful dialogue.

On a more optimistic note, the White House indicated that peace in Ukraine might be within reach. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that Trump is “determined” to ratify a peace agreement. The agenda for the talks could also include discussions on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the largest in Europe, which has been under Russian control since March 2022, raising concerns about potential nuclear accidents amid ongoing conflict.

Trump hinted at potential concessions that may arise during the talks, which could involve territorial discussions and the fate of certain power plants. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the agenda, stressing their typical reluctance to reveal such information beforehand.

Despite vague endorsement of a ceasefire, Russia's President has previously listed stringent conditions for any peace agreement. The ongoing tensions surrounding the Western Kursk region remain contentious, with Putin asserting that it is fully under Russian control, countering Ukraine's push for territorial reclamation.

The peace proposal currently in circulation has been discussed in previous meetings involving Ukrainian and American negotiators in Saudi Arabia. Following intense deliberations, a 30-day ceasefire proposal was put forth, which Ukraine has indicated readiness to accept. Macron and Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney, who convened on Tuesday, reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine and demanded concrete commitments from Russia regarding the peace initiative.