Ukraine Ceasefire: Merz and Allies Push for 30-Day Truce
Ceasefire possibility within the next few days, according to Merz's viewpoint.
The Scenario: The international community is pressing for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine that could potentially lead to peace negotiations.
Chancellor Merz's Optimism: During his initial visit to Brussels, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed optimism about reaching an agreement on a 30-day ceasefire within the next few days. The Chancellor expressed confidence, stating, "I have great hope that there will be an agreement this weekend for a ceasefire in Ukraine." Merz also warned Russia that additional sanctions would follow if meaningful peace talks failed to materialize.
European and US Unity: Merz's optimism for a prolonged ceasefire is shared by the US, with President Donald Trump being a key proponent. French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also support the call for a 30-day ceasefire. The European Union and the US have drafted a joint communiqué, which is almost identical to Trump's proposal, hoping for Russian acceptance.
Putin's Move: On May 8, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a three-day ceasefire, which came into effect at midnight. However, Ukraine, unsatisfied with this short duration, is demanding a 30-day ceasefire. The US proposal, backed by the European Union, is aimed at providing Ukraine and Russia with a more substantial opportunity to engage in meaningful peace talks.
Coalition of the Willing: In a parallel development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing" in Kyiv on Saturday. This gathering of around 30 states led by France and Britain, including Germany, is mobilizing to support Ukraine post-ceasefire. Zelensky did not disclose who would attend the meeting, but he emphasized the importance of this coalition in ensuring a secure future based on a common understanding.
Sanctions Threat: Chancellor Merz made it clear that further sanctions would be imposed on Russia if the ceasefire failed to materialize. The international community is closely watching Russia's response to the ceasefire proposal.
Sources:
- ntv.de
- toh/AFP
- Ukraine
- Russia
- Germany
- Donald Trump
- Volodymyr Zelensky
- The European Union, in a united front with the US, has drafted a joint communiqué, mirroring President Trump's proposal, aiming for Russian acceptance of a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.
- Chancellor Merz, expressing optimism, hopes for an agreement this weekend for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, but has also warned Russia that additional sanctions will follow if meaningful peace talks do not ensue.
- Vladimir Putin declared a three-day ceasefire, effective midnight on May 8, but Ukraine, unsatisfied with the short duration, is demanding a 30-day ceasefire instead.
- In a bid to support Ukraine post-ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing" in Kyiv on Saturday, including Germany, with around 30 states led by France and Britain.
