The leaders of France, Germany, Poland, and the United Kingdom arrived in Kyiv on Saturday to hold high-level talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer jointly vowed to intensify pressure on Russia until a full ceasefire is achieved.
The landmark visit marks the first time the four European powers have made a coordinated trip to Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion over three years ago. Their presence in the capital sends a powerful signal of continued European solidarity in the face of Moscow’s aggression.
Ahead of the visit, the leaders issued a joint statement aligning with U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire. “We are clear the bloodshed must end,” they said. “Russia must stop its illegal invasion, and Ukraine must be able to prosper as a safe, secure and sovereign nation within its internationally recognised borders.”
The visit comes just one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a defiant speech at a military parade in Moscow marking the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end. During the event, Putin hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, underscoring Moscow’s own international alliances.
In contrast, the European leaders’ trip emphasizes their backing for Ukraine and a peaceful resolution. They warned of increased pressure on Russia’s “war machine” if it continues to obstruct peace efforts. A French official noted that the swift visit, especially from newly appointed Chancellor Merz, demonstrates “Europe’s unity, strength, and responsiveness.”
After talks with Zelensky, the European leaders are set to host a virtual summit to discuss the formation of a European force designed to bolster Ukraine’s post-war security and rebuild its armed forces.
Despite the diplomatic push, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated that Russia will not consider a ceasefire while Western arms continue to flow into Ukraine, arguing that such a truce would benefit Kyiv militarily.
Still, the European leaders remain steadfast in their support, asserting that only sustained unity and pressure can create space for a just and lasting peace.
