France Hosts Talks with Allies to Seek Peace in Ukraine Ahead of Easter
As Easter approaches, France is taking the lead in hosting talks with allies to discuss a path to peace in Ukraine. The urgency of these discussions was heightened after overnight Russian attacks on several Ukrainian cities resulted in three fatalities and 28 injuries.
French President Emmanuel Macron has already met with Ukrainian and U.S. representatives in Paris to address the escalating situation. Despite the tensions between the nations, there were smiles and handshakes as U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with President Macron at the Élysée Palace.
Behind closed doors, tough negotiations were expected as European and Ukrainian officials sought to appeal to the United States for assistance in protecting Ukraine. The failure of American President Donald J. Trump to arrange a ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has heightened concerns in Europe and Kyiv.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, following separate talks with French, British, and German partners in Paris, emphasized the need for “a fair and lasting peace” in Ukraine. Discussions included topics such as a full ceasefire, a multinational military contingent, and security guarantees for Ukraine.
However, peace remains elusive as Russia continues its aggression, with recent missile strikes resulting in casualties in Ukrainian cities like Dnipro, Odesa, Sumy, Kharkiv, and Donetsk. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on allies to “put pressure on the killers” in reference to Russia, as the conflict has already claimed the lives of over a million people since the invasion began in February 2022.
As Ukrainians prepare for Easter celebrations amidst the devastation, President Zelensky is advocating for an end to the war and the establishment of a reliable peace. The high-level diplomacy in Paris underscores the global concern over the situation and the urgent need for a resolution.
