The UK and France have jointly proposed a one-month ceasefire in Ukraine, focusing on air, sea, and energy infrastructure, in what they describe as an initial step toward de-escalation.
French President Emmanuel Macron revealed the proposal on March 2, stating that it had been presented to both Kyiv and Moscow, according to Le Figaro.
Not a Full Truce
The proposal does not extend to ground combat, as Macron acknowledged that enforcing a full front-line ceasefire—stretching the distance from Paris to Budapest—would be difficult to monitor.
Instead, the focus is on halting aerial and naval operations and protecting critical infrastructure, particularly Ukraine’s energy sector, which has been heavily targeted by Russian strikes.
“We can control this. The front line is enormous, but in the air and at sea, verification is much easier,” Macron explained.
European Troops and Security Guarantees
Macron also did not rule out the eventual deployment of European troops to Ukraine, a controversial idea that has already been rejected by Moscow. He emphasized that peace must come with guarantees, ensuring Ukraine’s long-term security rather than just a temporary pause in hostilities.
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened an emergency European summit in London to discuss the plan and build what he calls a "coalition of goodwill" to support Ukraine’s security after the war.
“London and Paris will present their joint strategy for ending hostilities, developed with Ukraine and possibly other European nations,” Starmer stated.
He stressed that Ukraine needs to enter any negotiations from a position of strength, backed by European security guarantees and continued U.S. support.
“This is a package deal—all three elements must be in place,” Starmer stated.
Putin’s Rejection and Trump’s Role
The Kremlin has already dismissed the idea of European peacekeepers, calling it "unacceptable".
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also rejected any suggestion of halting front-line combat.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has claimed that during his February 12 call with Vladimir Putin, he floated the idea of a ceasefire. However, Putin reportedly responded that only a full and permanent cessation of hostilities would be acceptable, arguing that a temporary truce would simply lead to another round of fighting six months later.
Starmer, for his part, has urged the U.S. to provide a "security backstop" for any future European-led peacekeeping mission, arguing that only a strong deterrent can prevent another Russian offensive.
