USA to Take Charge of Ukraine Ceasefire Monitoring: Macron
France's President Emmanuel Macron highlighting that the United States will track the peace agreement in Ukraine.
In a significant move, the United States is set to assume the role of chief monitor for a 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict, according to French President Emmanuel Macron. This decision was made during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, European Council President Donald Tusk, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The aim is to pressure Russia into accepting the ceasefire from Monday onwards, with the backing of the USA.
Macron stated that the USA would primarily manage the ceasefire process, with "basic" oversight coming from American forces. However, he also emphasized that all Europeans would contribute to maintaining the peace. Zelensky affirmed US support, claiming that if Russia refused the ceasefire, stricter sanctions, including targeting the energy sector and banking system, should be imposed.
Previously, Zelensky held a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump, described as "historic moments" by Andrij Jermak, Zelensky's chief of staff. The EU leaders' strong stance comes as part of a broader involvement seeking to end the ongoing war in Ukraine, a conflict that has persisted for over three years.
The Great Diplomatic Push: A Chance for Peace?
Merz, speaking after the meeting, expressed optimism, stating that the diplomatic effort to end the Ukraine war was "one of the largest in recent months, if not years." He expressed hope that they might have a "small chance" of success.
The European Union and the United States have already imposed numerous sanctions on Russia to hamper its economy and curb its invasion of Ukraine. However, the Russian economy has proven resilient, generating substantial revenue through oil and gas sales, which have kept the war economy running.
Meanwhile, Russia has set conditions for the ceasefire, insisting on an end to weapons deliveries to Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov emphasized that allowing Ukraine to continue receiving military support would give it an advantage. However, Russia seems unperturbed by the threat of sanctions.
As the world watches and waits, the ultimate question is whether Russia will accept the ceasefire terms. The ball is in Russia's court to decide whether to pursue peace or continue the conflict.
[1] Tough sanctions drive Russia's leaders toward peace in Ukraine, experts say. (2025, May 9). The Washington Post.[2] Ukraine crisis: Europe and US leaders meet with Zelensky to push for ceasefire. (2025, May 10). The Guardian.[3] Ukraine, Russia accused of ceasefire violations. (2025, May 11). BBC News.
- The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a regulation on the ceasefire in Ukraine, as Europeans and the Americans strive to bring peace to the war-torn region.
- Emmanuel Macron, while emphasizing the US-led ceasefire monitoring, underscored the importance of all Europeans contributing responsibly to maintaining the peace in Ukraine.
- In a historic moment, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a phone conversation with Donald Trump, affirmed the need for a united global front to end the prolonged conflict in Ukraine.
- As the diplomatic push continues, the Europeans and Americans hope for a small chance of success, but the ball remains in Russia's court to decide whether to pursue peace or continue the conflict, amidst the threat of stricter sanctions.
