"Uniting the West, Pushing for Peace: Macron and Co. Urge Russia for Ukraine Ceasefire"
France's President Macron announces that the U.S. will observe the ceasefire in Ukraine.
Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, Keir Starmer, and Donald Tusk have rallied behind Ukraine, seeking to pressure Russia into a ceasefire starting Monday. The truce, demands a 30-day halt in hostilities, will predominantly be monitored by the United States, with support from Europe.
At a press conference, Macron announced that America would spearhead the oversight of the 30-day armistice, a task designated "mainly" to the United States. European allies are also set to contribute. Their collective aim is to bring Russia to the negotiating table and put an end to the ongoing conflict.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed confidence in the support of the United States, emphasizing that if Russia fails to agree to a complete and unconditional ceasefire, intensified sanctions should be imposed, especially targeting the energy and banking sectors.
Merz on Ceasefire Push: Trump "is on board - even with more sanctions"
Following a phone call between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump, Merz shared optimism, suggesting there's a slim chance for peace. They discussed the possibility of Taurus cruise missiles being provided to Ukraine to aid in its defense. However, any further discussions on specific weapons deliveries will be kept behind closed doors moving forward.
Merz also signaled his openness to a phone conversation with Putin, provided it takes place in coordination with European partners and the United States.
Tusk: "The Free World Now United"
Polish counterpart Donald Tusk expressed confidence that the free world stands united on this issue. This unwavering support for Ukraine is shared by all western nations eager to see Ukraine's territorial integrity, independence, and freedom restored, with the initiative carried by Trump and his administration.
France's President Macron also vowed robust security guarantees for Ukraine, reinforcing the determination of the coalition of willing allies.
Russia Sets Conditions for Ceasefire
However, Russia has established conditions that must be met for the ceasefire to take place, requiring the cessation of Western arms deliveries to Kyiv. Dmitri Peskov, Kremlin spokesman, asserted that these conditions are necessary to prevent Ukraine from gaining an unfair advantage during the truce. Russia, he argued, is making progress in its offensive and have seized the initiative.
Both sides continue to blame each other for Breach of the recent Russian unilateral three-day ceasefire, with weapons and attacks still reported during this timeframe, raising questions about the truce's credibility.
EU Leaders in Kyiv: "Putin can bring this to an end with one word"
In a show of unity, European leaders have visited Kyiv to pledge their support for the push toward a ceasefire. The Western alliance remains hopeful that Putin can end the conflict with a simple statement, paving the way for peace negotiations.
- Ukraine
- Russia
- Keir Starmer
- Friedrich Merz
- Donald Tusk
- Volodymyr Zelensky
Insights:
- According to recent reports, on May 10, 2025, Russia continues to resist agreeing to a 30-day ceasefire, preferring more favorable conditions and the implementation of reliable monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. Ukraine, meanwhile, remains ready to accept the truce once Russia agrees.
- The United States plays a significant role in the diplomatic efforts, with President Donald Trump and Special Envoy to Ukraine General Keith Kellogg being key figures in these discussions. The U.S. has emphasized Russia's responsibility in agreeing to the ceasefire for peace talks to progress.
- Despite a unilateral Russian ceasefire, both sides have accused each other of violations, indicating the current ceasefire may not be trusted or effective. The effectiveness and trustworthiness of future ceasefires remain questionable.
- The “Coalition of the Willing” includes France, Poland, Britain, and Germany, and they all stand united in their support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, independence, and freedom.
- Russia continues to demand the cessation of Western arms deliveries to Kyiv as a precondition for a ceasefire, claiming it would prevent Ukraine from gaining an unfair advantage during the truce.
- Western experts acknowledge the unexpected resilience of the Russian economy, despite numerous sanctions being imposed on Russia to deprive it of economic means to continue its invasion of Ukraine.
- The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a robust regulation on the ceasefire in Ukrainian conflict zones, to ensure efficient monitoring and enforcement.
- Friedrich Merz, a key European figure in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, has signaled his openness to a conversation with Putin, provided it aligns with the United States and European partners.
- Keir Starmer, a UK political leader, stands with France and Poland in their united support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, independence, and freedom.
- The Russian economy, despite numerous sanctions, continues to exhibit resilience, raising concerns about the effectiveness of financial measures as a means to put an end to the war-and-conflicts politics in Ukraine.
