Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that a ceasefire agreement lacking security guarantees for his nation would not succeed in ending Russia's invasion.
Speaking to British media after discussions with European allies in London, Zelenskyy dismissed the notion that a ceasefire alone would suffice, labeling it as \"not enough.\"
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France and Britain are advocating for a one-month truce in Ukraine, covering operations \"in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure.\" However, initial proposals do not extend to ground combat.
\"It will be a failure for everyone if Ukraine is forced into a ceasefire without serious security guarantees,\" Zelenskyy told journalists, predicting that Russia would breach the agreement and Ukraine would respond.
Despite these concerns, Zelenskyy described the recent talks as a \"very powerful start\" and expressed optimism that future negotiations would yield a more actionable plan with clearer security assurances for Ukraine.
In contrast, UK Minister for the Armed Forces Luke Pollard did not confirm Macron's stance, stating, \"That's not a plan that we currently recognize.\" He added that various options are being discussed privately among allies.
British leader Keir Starmer mentioned that European leaders have agreed to develop a peace plan for Ukraine to present to the United States, although details remain undisclosed.
Meanwhile, a contentious meeting in Washington saw U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance accuse Zelenskyy of being ungrateful and resistant to proposed truce terms. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for security guarantees, leaving the White House without signing a preliminary agreement on sharing Ukrainian mineral rights.
Zelenskyy also acknowledged suggestions from some U.S. Republicans for his resignation, stating that replacing him would not be easy given the current support and circumstances. He reiterated his willingness to step down in exchange for NATO membership for Ukraine.
Russia has continually questioned Zelenskyy's legitimacy, arguing that the absence of elections due to Ukraine's martial law weakens his position.
European Union leaders are set to convene for an extraordinary summit on March 6 to discuss further support for Ukraine, European security guarantees, and financing Europe's defense needs.
