European Leaders Propose Multinational Force to Secure Peace in Ukraine
European leaders, in collaboration with the United States, have agreed on parameters for achieving peace in Ukraine, including the possibility of leading a multinational force to ensure a lasting ceasefire. The main European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met in Berlin, where they affirmed their commitment to a six-point security and recovery plan, including long-term military support and legally binding measures to respond to any future attack.
Background and Context
The discussions on the Ukrainian peace process come amid ongoing tensions and conflict in the region. The meeting in Berlin signaled a significant step towards resolving these issues, with leaders from Europe, Ukraine, and the United States coming together to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine.
According to Ukrinform, the security guarantees include the development of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the potential deployment of peacekeeping forces to ensure the security of air and maritime space. An agreement on these parameters is said to be close, with Washington stating that 90% of issues have been resolved, as reported by ANSA.
Key Developments and Details
In a joint statement, European leaders committed to leading a multinational force within Ukraine to ensure a lasting ceasefire. This force would be supported by the United States, according to a statement released by the German government. The statement also outlined plans for a mechanism to monitor and verify the ceasefire under the leadership of the United States.
Europeans open to multinational force. Washington: '90% of issues resolved'. Territorial stalemate,
ANSA reported. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed his belief that significant progress has been made toward an agreement to end the war in Ukraine, with peace closer than ever.
Implications and Reactions
Despite these advancements, there remain contentious issues, particularly concerning territorial control. According to Ukrinform, Russia is unlikely to agree to any peace deal or security guarantees that would not ensure Moscow's full control over Ukraine in the future.
In response to potential territorial compromises, Ukrainian President Zelensky asserted that these decisions should be decided by the Ukrainian people — either through elections or a referendum. The Russians want the whole of Donbas — we don't accept that. I believe that the Ukrainian people will answer this question,
Zelensky stated, as reported by the Kyiv Independent.
Current Status and Outlook
As of now, the proposed multinational force and security guarantees remain in the negotiation phase, with the commitment from European leaders representing a significant step towards peace in Ukraine. However, the issue of territorial control remains a significant obstacle to a final agreement, with both Russia and Ukraine standing firm on their positions.
While the peace negotiations continue, European leaders are expected to sign an agreement on Ukraine's compensation claims against Russia, Deutsche Welle reported. This ongoing process reflects the multinational effort to bring about a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.