Zelenskyy Meets European Leaders Amid Ongoing Peace Efforts for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to visit Downing Street on Monday for an in-person meeting with UK Labour leader Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German leader Friedrich Merz. This meeting aims to demonstrate steadfast support for Ukraine amidst ongoing negotiations involving US and Ukrainian officials to solidify post-war security measures for the nation. Recently, the four leaders participated in a virtual meeting of the 'coalition of the willing', where they explored plans to establish a European peacekeeping force that could be deployed in Ukraine following a ceasefire. Following this discussion, Starmer will utilize the upcoming face-to-face meeting to elaborate on the evolution of discussions about peace and security guarantees. A statement from the European Council emphasized the trio's endorsement of former President Trump's assertion that the current demarcation line should serve as the foundation for future talks. However, a peace deal that has been quietly negotiated between US and Russian diplomats has faced scrutiny for potentially undermining Ukraine's sovereignty, leaving it in a precarious position. Initially crafted by Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff alongside Kremlin advisor Kirill Dmitriev, the draft proposed several stringent terms that would have compromised Ukraine's military and political independence—conditions perceived as tantamount to surrender by Kyiv. Fortunately, significant revisions were made by Ukraine last month, eliminating some of the more radical demands from Russia. Nevertheless, hostilities persist, as evidenced by a recent drone and missile assault by Russia targeting Ukraine's power and transportation infrastructure. Reports indicate that Russia launched 653 drones and 51 missiles in a single night, with the Ukrainian military successfully intercepting 585 drones and 30 missiles. President Zelenskyy has highlighted that the assault on energy infrastructure is particularly troubling, accusing Moscow of attempting to weaponize winter by depriving civilians of essential heating and power. In parallel, US and Ukrainian officials have entered their third day of negotiations in Florida, aiming to advance an American-backed peace plan. Russian President Vladimir Putin has rebuffed some elements of this proposal, particularly concerning Ukraine’s territorial integrity and measures aimed at dissuading future Russian aggressions, which remain significant sticking points in the discussions. Starmer has reiterated that the future of Ukraine must be determined by the Ukrainian people themselves, asserting that a peacekeeping force spearheaded by the coalition of the willing will be crucial in safeguarding the country's future. While discussions advance, both US and Ukrainian representatives have conveyed that making meaningful progress toward a deal hinges on Russia demonstrating genuine commitment to achieving lasting peace. In its newly released national security strategy, the White House reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring Ukraine remains a viable state. Interestingly, this strategy also prioritizes enhancing relations with Moscow, encapsulating a dual focus on resolving the conflict while seeking to reestablish strategic stability with Russia. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2