As the war in Ukraine continues with no immediate resolution in sight, European leaders are under increasing pressure to find a path toward lasting peace. With uncertainty surrounding U.S. commitments and Russia’s continued aggression, Ukraine has outlined specific steps it believes are essential for stability. These proposals come at a crucial time as international negotiations intensify.
Ukraine’s Conditions for Peace
Andrii Yermak, head of the Ukrainian President’s Office, outlined three essential steps the European Union must take to ensure a durable peace in Ukraine. According to Digi24, these conditions include:
Security Guarantees – Ukraine insists on solid security assurances to lend credibility to any future ceasefire agreement.
Stronger Sanctions on Russia – The EU must take decisive action to reinforce and expand sanctions against Moscow.
Control Over Frozen Russian Assets – Europe should take charge of Russian assets currently frozen to provide continuous financial support for Ukraine.
Yermak emphasized that unity within the EU is crucial, citing the European Council’s recent meeting as an example of collective strength in shaping the region’s security.
Diplomatic Efforts and Proposals
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has suggested that initial steps toward a lasting peace could include the release of prisoners and an immediate cessation of hostilities in air and maritime zones, provided Russia reciprocates. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have proposed a one-month truce covering aerial, maritime, and energy sectors.
Parallel to these discussions, Ukrainian and U.S. delegations have begun negotiations in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, seeking a resolution to the conflict with Russia.
A Critical Moment for Europe
Ukraine's leadership argues that Europe must take decisive action now to maintain regional security. Yermak warned that Russia’s decade-long aggression cannot be overlooked and urged European leaders to translate diplomatic talks into concrete actions.
As international negotiations continue, the effectiveness of these proposed measures remains to be seen, but their implementation could shape the trajectory of the conflict and the security of the European continent.
