KYIV, Ukraine (CHATNEWSTV) — The leaders of France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine on Saturday called for a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire in the war with Russia, warning that any Russian effort to impose conditions would be seen as a tactic to prolong the conflict.
In a joint statement on Saturday following their meeting in Kyiv, the five leaders said the ceasefire must begin on Monday, May 12, and apply comprehensively—“in the air, at sea, and on land.”
“An unconditional ceasefire by definition cannot be subject to any conditions,” the leaders said. “If Russia calls for such conditions, this can only be considered as an effort to prolong the war and undermine diplomacy.”
The group called for the ceasefire to be monitored “effectively and in close coordination with the United States” and emphasized that it should serve as a window for diplomatic progress on political, security, and humanitarian grounds.
They welcomed support for the ceasefire from both the United States and Europe and underscored the need to continue strengthening Ukraine’s Defence and Security Forces as the “primary guarantee of Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.”
“A reassurance force must also be part of the future security guarantees to Ukraine,” the leaders said.
If Moscow refuses to accept the ceasefire terms, the five nations pledged to push for stronger sanctions targeting Russia’s banking and energy sectors, including fossil fuels, oil, and its so-called shadow fleet.
They also agreed to pass a robust 17th EU sanctions package and coordinate additional measures with the United Kingdom, Norway, and the United States. Further discussions on the use of frozen Russian assets will take place at the next G7 summit.
The leaders committed to continued support for Ukraine’s military resilience, including funding for arms production in Ukraine and in Europe under joint defense initiatives.
