Introduction

In a stark warning, French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized that Russia continues to harbor a “desire for war” despite international efforts aimed at establishing a ceasefire. This declaration comes as European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, convene in Paris to discuss potential security guarantees for Ukraine if a lasting truce is achieved. Macron praised Ukraine’s proactive stance, noting that they have “taken the risk of peace” amid a dangerous conflict.

Meeting of Leaders

During Thursday's meeting, leaders from the so-called "coalition of the willing," spearheaded by France and the UK, deliberated on the possibility of deploying peacekeeping troops to Ukraine once a ceasefire is implemented. In a show of support for Ukraine, Macron announced a substantial €2 billion ($2.15 billion) military aid package, pledging to expedite the delivery of military hardware from French stockpiles.

Obstacles to Peace

As negotiations progress, the absence of a mutually agreed ceasefire remains a critical barrier. Russia has reportedly imposed “new conditions” and rejected Ukraine's recent proposal for a 30-day ceasefire without preconditions. In a troubling sign of the negotiations' complexity, Russia insists that any ceasefire agreement must be accompanied by the lifting of wide-ranging sanctions and access to the Swift international banking system. While the US has tentatively considered this request, the EU maintains that sanctions will only be lifted with the “unconditional withdrawal of all Russian military forces” from Ukraine.

Ongoing Hostilities

Despite purported ties to a month-long moratorium on attacks against Ukrainian energy infrastructure declared by President Vladimir Putin, evidence suggests Russian drone and missile strikes continue to wreak havoc. Ukrainian authorities have reported ongoing assaults, asserting that Russian forces have attacked energy sites, with the situation resulting in blackouts. Furthermore, Ukraine's President Zelenskyy indicated that Russia's continued military actions demonstrate a lack of commitment to peace.

Humanitarian Crisis