European leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine by maintaining sanctions against Russia. During a meeting in Paris, key figures, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron, emphasized that lifting sanctions now would be a grave mistake. The discussions focused on intensifying economic pressure on Russia and exploring the deployment of a European 'reassurance force' in Ukraine.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted the need to explore tougher sanctions rather than easing them, as the coalition of willing nations seeks to keep supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict. Macron announced a joint French-British mission to Ukraine to prepare for possible European troop deployment in case of a ceasefire.
Russia's proposal to place Ukraine under temporary UN control for elections was met with skepticism by European leaders, who view it as a tactic to gain strategic advantage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of violating ceasefire agreements, calling for unity among allies to counter Russian aggression. As Europe stands firm, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges.
