France stresses the need for a realistic framework for any ceasefire in Ukraine. This announcement follows a series of important international stakeholders convening in Paris for climate negotiations. The comments came on the heels of a City Hall powwow with heavy hitters – including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Together, they sought to develop an aligned approach to provide ongoing support for Ukraine against Russia’s continued aggression.
According to an unnamed Elysée Palace official, yesterday, French President Emmanuel Macron personally informed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The discussion is a fitting prelude to France’s continued support for Ukraine. The first performance underscored the urgent call for a ceasefire. Its call for restrictions on weapons covers all of Ukraine’s territory, including regions currently under Russian annexation. The special envoy was vague about which territories were being discussed. It is generally accepted that they refer to the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed in violation of international law in 2014.
Moreover, the territories probably include Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. These territories were placed there as part of sham referendums organized by Russia, resulting in their illegal annexation. Yet the Kremlin does not fully control these territories, and occupation has failed to quiet conflict and resistance.
The Elysée described Thursday as marking the beginning of a “positive process in which Europeans are involved.” France and Britain are leading the charge to create a new “coalition of the willing.” This coalition now includes over 30 countries committed to providing Ukraine with long-term support. This coalition is still actively looking for new and innovative ways to offer support. Notably, they could send in a ground reassurance force if a ceasefire deal is made.
The Paris conversations featured high-profile participants including Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg. They were fortunate to have joined Secretary Rubio to talk about how to align our international efforts together in responding to the conflict.
“Our goal is peace as quickly as possible, a solid peace and a peace that guarantees respect for Ukraine’s essential rights.” – Elysée official
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