As tensions escalate in Eastern Europe, a potential ceasefire looms on the horizon, with an announcement anticipated as early as Thursday. French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu expressed optimism about the ceasefire, stating that 15 countries were ready to contribute to a peacekeeping force of up to 30,000 personnel. This force aims to secure Ukraine's airports, ports, and vital infrastructure should a settlement be reached. Meanwhile, the conflict sees no immediate end, with Russian forces attempting to oust Ukrainian troops from key regions.
General Oleksandr Syrski reported significant personnel and equipment losses for the Russian military as they strive for political gains. The Russian strategy involves utilizing airborne troops and special operations forces to breach Ukrainian defenses in the Kursk region and extend the conflict into Sumy and Kharkiv.
“The enemy is using assault units of airborne troops and special operations forces to break through our defences, oust our troops out of the Kursk region and move fighting to the territory of Sumy and Kharkiv regions,” – Gen Oleksandr Syrski
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the pressure on Ukrainian forces while emphasizing their efforts to protect soldiers.
“The Russians are clearly trying to put maximum pressure on our troops, and our military command is doing what it has to do,” – Volodymyr Zelensky
“We are preserving the lives of our soldiers as much as possible.” – Volodymyr Zelensky
Simultaneously, diplomatic efforts continue on a global scale. US Senator Marco Rubio, en route to a G7 meeting in Canada, highlighted discussions on sanctions against Russia and strengthening support for Ukraine.
“That’s what we want to know – if they’re prepared to do it unconditionally,” – Marco Rubio
“If the response is yes, then we know we’ve made real progress, and there’s a real chance of peace. If their response is no, it would be highly unfortunate, and it’ll make their intentions clear.” – Marco Rubio
Former US President Donald Trump suggested potential financial measures against Russia if they resist supporting a proposed 30-day ceasefire. Zelensky also urged Washington for strong action should Russia reject the ceasefire proposal.
“I understand that we can count on strong steps. I don’t know the details yet but we are talking about sanctions [against Russia] and strengthening Ukraine.” – Volodymyr Zelensky
On the Russian front, President Vladimir Putin expressed confidence in his military's progress in Kursk, claiming recent successes in retaking 24 settlements over five days.
“I am counting on the fact that all the combat tasks facing our units will be fulfilled, and the territory of the Kursk region will soon be completely liberated from the enemy,” – Vladimir Putin
In Paris, defence ministers from Europe's major military powers convened to discuss forming a "reassurance force." This force aims to ensure peace in Ukraine if an agreement is reached, reflecting a collective commitment to stability in the region.