20-Nation Coalition in Kyiv Demands 30-Day Ceasefire, Threatens Russia With Sanctions, US to Oversee

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a summit of European leaders, known as the 'Coalition of the Willing', would be held in Kyiv. The meeting began on May 10, with participation from leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and other European officials. Around 20 coalition countries joined the summit, which resulted in a joint statement in Kyiv. During the summit, Macron and other leaders called for a 30-day complete and unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine, supported by both European and American partners. The ceasefire is proposed to start on Monday, with the United States primarily responsible for monitoring, and contributions from all European partners. The proposal includes the threat of 'massive' and 'coordinated' new sanctions against Russia if Moscow refuses or violates the ceasefire. Macron emphasized the need for direct talks between Ukraine and Russia if a ceasefire is established, stating that France and its allies are ready to assist in facilitating negotiations. Zelensky also expressed Ukraine's readiness for negotiations, provided Russia demonstrates a serious commitment to ending the war. The summit's joint statement underscored the importance of strengthening Ukraine's defense and security forces and highlighted that a reassurance force should be a key element of security guarantees for Ukraine. Macron indicated that several thousand European troops could be deployed in Ukraine as a reserve force stationed away from the front lines, to provide reassurance and solidarity. Additionally, the coalition supported the creation of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. Former US President Donald Trump expressed support for the 30-day ceasefire proposal.