Kyiv, Ukraine — Leaders from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Poland gathered in Kyiv on Saturday for critical discussions with President Volodymyr Zelensky, showcasing a united European front in their ongoing support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk arrived at the main railway station, where they were received by Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. This meeting underscores a sense of renewed urgency in diplomatic efforts aimed at making progress toward a ceasefire in the protracted war.
Yermak took to Telegram to emphasize the need for a just resolution, stating, “There is much work to be done and many issues to discuss. This war must be ended with a just peace. Moscow must be forced to agree to a ceasefire.” The call for a swift and unconditional 30-day ceasefire reflects Ukraine’s position, emphasized by European leaders and echoed by U.S. officials.
The first activity for the delegation included paying respects at Kyiv’s Independence Square, commemorating Ukrainian soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict. As part of their diplomatic mission, the European leaders aim to reiterate their solidarity with Ukraine while pressuring Moscow to halt its military operations.
Despite calls for peace, Russia has not agreed to a ceasefire, describing its position as favorable in theory but burdened by what it refers to as “nuances” that require negotiation. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that these nuances relate to conditions such as the cessation of military supplies to Ukraine from the U.S. and Europe.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has frequently cited the need to discuss the “root causes” of the conflict, alluding to NATO’s eastward expansion as a critical factor. Meanwhile, calls for action grow, including from former President Donald Trump, who indicated that additional sanctions would be imposed should the proposed ceasefire not be respected.
The shift in U.S. foreign policy following Trump’s inauguration sparked concern among Ukraine and its allies, prompting a series of meetings among European leaders. These gatherings serve the dual purpose of demonstrating Europe’s willingness to support Ukraine militarily and coordinating a unified message to avert any perceived tilt toward Russia in U.S. policy.
In a message posted earlier, Macron reiterated the commitment to reach a “just and lasting peace” with a full and unconditional ceasefire as the foundation. He noted Ukraine’s acceptance of the ceasefire proposal on March 11 and expressed frustration over Russia’s delays and preconditions. Macron further stated that continued obstruction by Moscow would result in intensified pressure from European leaders, in close collaboration with the United States.
As tensions remain high, this delegation’s visit to Kyiv symbolizes not just political support but also a committed partnership aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region. The urgency of the situation calls for responsive action from all parties involved, as both Ukraine and its allies face significant challenges ahead.