In a major diplomatic gesture, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer joined French President Emmanuel Macron and newly appointed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Kyiv to push for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The visit was also attended by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
The leaders traveled together by train to the Ukrainian capital, sending a powerful symbolic message of unity and resolve in contrast to the recent gathering of over 20 global leaders in Moscow for Russia’s Victory Day. Their call for a ceasefire aligns with a proposal made by former US President Donald Trump, who has also urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Statement of Unity and Support
Before their arrival, the four leaders issued a joint statement:
“We, the leaders of France, Germany, Poland, and the United Kingdom, will stand in Kyiv in solidarity with Ukraine against Russia’s barbaric and illegal full-scale invasion. We reiterate our backing for President Trump’s calls for a peace deal and call on Russia to stop obstructing efforts to secure an enduring peace.”
They emphasized that Russia must respect Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders and allow the nation to prosper in peace. The group pledged to support peace negotiations and the technical implementation of a ceasefire, while increasing pressure on the Kremlin if aggression continues.
Ceasefire Proposal and Ongoing Violations
Russia recently declared a three-day unilateral truce to mark its WWII Victory Day. However, Ukraine rejected it as a “theatrical show”, citing continued Russian strikes. Kyiv maintains that Moscow has launched thousands of attacks since the so-called ceasefire began, while the Kremlin accuses Ukraine of violations.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed hope that a broader ceasefire could be agreed by the weekend. “The ball is now entirely in Moscow’s court,” he remarked.
Coalition of the Willing and Virtual Talks
The leaders are also participating in a virtual summit of the “Coalition of the Willing”—a group of over 30 primarily European nations dedicated to reinforcing Ukraine’s security infrastructure should a lasting peace agreement be reached.
During their time in Kyiv, the leaders visited Independence Square to honor the Ukrainian soldiers who have died since the Russian invasion began over three years ago. Their presence not only boosts Ukraine’s morale but also sends a clear message of international resolve against authoritarian aggression.
Next Steps and U.S. Role
Former President Trump reaffirmed the need for an immediate 30-day ceasefire after a phone call with President Volodymyr Zelensky. He warned that if the truce is not respected, the U.S. and allies would “impose further sanctions” on Russia.
This high-profile visit by European leaders marks a coordinated diplomatic escalation aimed at breaking the stalemate. Whether Moscow responds remains to be seen, but the global spotlight is now firmly on Russia’s next move.
For ongoing updates on the conflict, visit our Russia-Ukraine War Updates page.
