The UK and France have urged President Putin to demonstrate commitment to peace with Ukraine before talks with Trump. Macron and Lammy emphasized the need for a ceasefire, while the White House expressed optimism for peace. Discussions will likely address critical issues including the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Concerns about ceasefire conditions and ongoing military tensions in regions like Kursk persist.
In light of the upcoming discussions between President Vladimir Putin and former President Donald Trump, both the UK and France have called on Putin to affirm Russia’s dedication to a peaceful resolution regarding Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron praised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s bravery in proposing a ceasefire and urged Russia to reciprocate this initiative. Macron emphasized the urgent need for cessation of violence, stating, “Enough deaths. Enough lives destroyed. Enough destruction. The guns must fall silent,” as reported by News.Az citing the BBC.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy insisted that Putin must agree to an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire, expressing skepticism regarding Putin’s genuine interest in peace. He noted that the UK and its allies possess various strategies to compel Russia toward serious negotiations.
The White House appeared optimistic ahead of the Trump-Putin conversation scheduled for Tuesday, suggesting that peace in Ukraine might be achievable. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt remarked that former President Trump is “determined” to pursue a peace agreement. Additionally, discussions are expected to include a power plant located on the Russia-Ukraine border, presumably the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has been under Russian occupation since March 2022.
During an interview, Trump alluded to potential concessions in the ceasefire negotiations, hinting at discussions about territory and power plants. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov refrained from commenting on the anticipated talks, adhering to the Kremlin’s policy of not disclosing such details in advance.
While Putin has publicly expressed his support for a ceasefire, he has outlined various conditions required for any peace agreement. Tensions persist over the Western Kursk region, which Russia claims to have regained control of after Ukraine’s military actions last August. Concerns regarding the supervision and enforcement of a ceasefire have also been raised, with Putin rejecting the presence of NATO troops in the region.
Last week, delegates from Ukraine and the United States discussed a peace proposal in Saudi Arabia, resulting in a plan for a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine has indicated its willingness to accept. Both President Macron and newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney reaffirmed their countries’ steadfast support for Ukraine and emphasized the importance of securing clear commitments from Russia.
In conclusion, as President Putin prepares for discussions with former President Trump, pressures from the UK and France highlight the necessity for Russia to substantiate its intentions for peace concerning Ukraine. Encouragement for a ceasefire and ongoing diplomatic efforts may pave the way towards mitigating conflict in the region. International leaders remain vigilant, insisting on accountability from Russia while articulating their commitment to supporting Ukraine through this critical period.
Original Source: news.az
