French President Emmanuel Macron urged Russia on Friday to accept an American and Ukrainian proposal for a 30-day truce, urging diplomatic progress.
Macron confirmed he spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer concerning the current crisis. Discussion included rallying worldwide backing for the proposal for the cessation of conflict through a truce, to mitigate tensions and bring about wider terms for negotiating peace.
In his night address, Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to the planned ceasefire and emphasized the strong backing of France. In his words, he and Macron had explored diplomatic measures and technical means needed to control a truce.
“We have the full support of France on all these matters,” Zelenskyy assured, emphasizing the need for concerted international action.
Though Russia as yet has not responded to the ceasefire overture, the proposal is becoming increasingly popular with the Western allies. The gesture, if accepted, will mark a temporary conclusion of hostilities, which would lay the stage for further potential talks. Nonetheless, military campaigns persist unabated and, as Moscow refuses to back down on its long-term ambitions, the path to a truce is not assured.
Diplomatic pressure will probably build up in the coming days as France, Britain, and other friends call on Russia to sign the ceasefire deal.
