French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed a strong message to Russia regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. They warned that if Russia does not accept the proposed 30-day ceasefire by European leaders and Donald Trump, “there will be additional sanctions… much harsher.” They made these remarks during interviews while traveling to Kyiv by train alongside Kir Starmer and Donald Tusk for a teleconference with the “coalition of the willing,” which includes Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
Macron emphasized the urgency for “immediate negotiations” between Ukraine and Russia during interviews with French TV networks TF1 and LCI. He stated, “If a 30-day ceasefire is established, we would initiate direct talks between Ukraine and Russia. We are ready to assist.”
Echoing this sentiment, Merz told Germany’s Bild that if Russian President Vladimir Putin rejects the ceasefire, there would be a “massive reinforcement of sanctions.” He added, “If the Kremlin does not respond, there will be increased sanctions and significant ongoing support for Ukraine, politically, economically, and militarily.”
From Maidan Square, Macron remarked, “The collaboration between Poland, Germany, and Great Britain marks a historic moment for European defense and enhances our security independence. This is not just about Ukraine; it’s about our shared future. We are entering a new era where Europe sees itself as a power.”
Joint Statement Before the Kyiv Visit
Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, and Kir Starmer traveled to Ukraine’s capital by train, sharing videos on social media, while Donald Tusk will meet them there. In their joint statement, the leaders of Europe’s four largest military powers accused Putin of “hindering efforts to achieve a lasting peace.”
“Together with the US, we urge Russia to agree to a full, unconditional ceasefire for 30 days to foster a suitable environment for discussions aimed at a fair and lasting peace,” the statement read.
“We are prepared to support peace talks promptly, discuss the technical details of the ceasefire, and work towards a comprehensive peace agreement. We are resolute that the bloodshed must cease, Russia needs to halt its illegal invasion, and Ukraine must thrive as a secure, sovereign nation within internationally recognized borders for generations to come,” added the four leaders, affirming their commitment to increase support for Ukraine and intensify pressure on the Russian military until a lasting ceasefire is achieved.
It’s worth noting that this visit by the leaders of Germany, France, Britain, and Poland comes just a day after Vladimir Putin showcased military strength during a Victory Day parade in Moscow.
Trump: Call for Peace
US President Donald Trump issued a renewed message urging both Russian and Ukrainian leaders to end the conflict, advocating for a 30-day ceasefire. As he prepares for a tour starting Monday to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, Trump was questioned about his message to Putin, especially in light of warnings from the US Embassy in Kyiv about “potentially significant” airstrikes on the horizon.
“I have a message for both sides: End this war,” Trump stated, addressing both Putin and Zelensky. “Stop this senseless war! That’s my message to them,” he conveyed to reporters in the Oval Office.
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