Several European countries will form a "voluntary coalition" to submit a Ukraine peace plan to the United States. According to Kyiv, this move is a crucial step in prompting Washington to provide security guarantees and deter Russia.
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03-04, 2025The announcement by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer came after Ukrainian President Zelenskyy received a public rebuke from US President Trump and Vice President JD Vance in the Oval Office. Zelenskyy shortened his visit to Washington and traveled to London two days later.
According to White House officials, the United States has suspended all military aid to Ukraine to "ensure its contribution to resolving the problem" as Russia's invasion continues. Starmer stated that the UK, Ukraine, France, and other countries will form a "coalition." He said: "Now is not the time for empty words, but the time for action, the time to step up leadership and unite around a new plan for a just and lasting peace."
More than twenty European leaders attended the meeting held in London on Sunday (local time). However, it is unclear how many have agreed to contribute to this effort. Starmer stated that "some countries" have expressed a desire to participate in the peace plan being developed but did not reveal the names of these countries. He said, "I will let them make their own statements about how they wish to contribute." He also added that the leaders have agreed to ensure that Kyiv can participate in any peace negotiations and that those willing to participate will "step up planning with real urgency."
French President Macron stated before the summit that the plan would include a one-month ceasefire, applicable to airstrikes and surface attacks, but not to ground combat. He also told the French newspaper Le Figaro that European troops would be deployed if a more substantial peace agreement is reached. It is currently unclear whether other countries agree to these terms. Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine will not cede any territory to Russia as part of a peace agreement. Other leaders, such as European Commission President von der Leyen, have stated that they must increase defense spending. She said: "After a long period of underinvestment, the most important thing now is to increase defense investment over a long period." She added that Europe needs to turn Ukraine into a "steel porcupine" that is "difficult for a potential invader to digest."
Meanwhile, Trump stated that negotiations to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine are "going very well." Although US officials met with Russian representatives last month, no formal talks have taken place between Kyiv and Moscow. Three years have passed since Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The invasion is the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II, marking a major escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian War, which began in 2014.
Trump made the remarks during Starmer's visit to the White House last week, a trip intended to urge the United States to continue supporting Ukraine. Trump stated that he believes Russian President Putin will "keep his word" and will not continue to push the war after a ceasefire. He said: "I think we've made great progress, and I think it's happening very quickly. If it doesn't happen quickly, it may not happen at all." The Trump administration has also continued to criticize Zelenskyy, with White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz telling CNN that the US needs a Ukrainian leader who is willing to ensure lasting peace.
It is currently unclear when the plan will be finalized or when it will be submitted to the United States. Zelenskyy stated that he still believes the relationship between the United States and Ukraine can be salvaged and pledged further diplomatic efforts in his speech on Monday evening. He said: "There will be diplomacy for peace, for all of us together. Ukraine, the whole of Europe, and, of course, of course, the United States. Of course, we realize the importance of the United States, and we are grateful for all the support that the United States has given. Not a day goes by that we do not feel this gratitude."
Trump broke his silence on the European situation on his Truth Social platform, urging his followers to "spend less time worrying about Putin." Instead, he warned against letting "immigrant rape gangs, drug dealers, murderers, and people from mental institutions" into the United States, a topic he frequently raises during his 2024 presidential campaign. He is scheduled to address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday (local time). Just six weeks into his term, this speech should articulate Trump's vision for America and the world.
Australian Prime Minister Albanese stated that he would consider any request to send Australian troops to Ukraine as peacekeepers. Albanese reiterated his support for Ukraine and President Zelenskyy. He also mentioned Australia's historical role in providing peacekeeping in parts of Africa and Europe. He said: "Australia stands ready to assist. We've contributed $1.5 billion AUD, $1.3 billion of which is directly for military assistance. Potential peacekeeping operations are being discussed, and from my government's perspective, we're open to any proposals that are put forward in the future."
Opposition Leader Dutton stated that Australia should continue to provide training and support to Ukraine but that Europe should send troops to the war-torn country. Dutton also stated that it is positive that NATO countries are increasing their defense budgets. He said: "In terms of whether we should have troops on the ground in Ukraine, I don't believe so. I think the Europeans have that task, but what Donald Trump points out is that the Europeans need to do more in terms of their defense in Europe, and that's an obvious statement. The Americans are focused on other theaters and areas of engagement, and that's appropriate."
