Ukraine and Allies Demand 30-Day Ceasefire, Threaten Russia with Sanctions

In a bold move from Kyiv, European heavyweights—France, Germany, Poland, and the UK—joined Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to demand a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, set to begin Monday. The coalition, backed by U.S. President Donald Trump in a recent call, warned Russian President Vladimir Putin of intensified sanctions on energy and banking if he refuses. This united front, dubbed the "coalition of the willing," includes over 30 nations committed to bolstering Ukraine’s defenses against Russian aggression.

The ceasefire would pause all combat—land, sea, and air—offering a window for peace talks to end over three years of brutal conflict. The announcement followed a symbolic gathering in Kyiv’s Independence Square, where leaders lit candles to honor fallen Ukrainians on the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end. Yet, Russia’s recent three-day ceasefire, which Ukraine claims was repeatedly violated, casts doubt on Moscow’s willingness to comply.

French President Emmanuel Macron hinted at deploying foreign troops as a "reassurance" measure, while stressing that the U.S. would lead ceasefire monitoring. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized making the war too costly for Russia, urging robust arms supplies to Kyiv. Meanwhile, Trump’s envoy, Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, called the proposed truce a step toward ending Europe’s longest war since 1945.

Despite the push, Russia’s relentless attacks, including deadly strikes in Sumy and Kherson, signal Putin’s resistance. Trump, once optimistic about a quick deal, now expresses skepticism, hinting at further sanctions. As Ukraine’s allies rally, the stakes are clear: a stronger Kyiv is Europe’s bulwark against Russian expansion.