The day we heard from French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot was a pretty exciting one. The European Union is preparing for a 17th round of sanctions against Russia, ramping up the economic pressure on the country. Barrot noted that Russian president Vladimir Putin is the “only impediment” to restoring peace in Ukraine. Innocent people are suddenly becoming collateral damage. His remarks underscore the deepening humanitarian crisis in the region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the recently signed U.S.-Ukraine minerals action plan. He described it as a “historic equal partnership.” This agreement significantly increases production and creation of almost all industries to modernize the climate of Ukraine. Zelenskyy remarked on the evolution of the deal, stating, “The agreement has changed significantly during the preparation process. It is now truly an equal partnership – one that creates opportunities for substantial investment in Ukraine, as well as significant modernization of Ukraine’s industries and, equally importantly, its legal practices.”
These diplomatic moves come amid a scene of near total uncertainty. Former President Donald Trump and his hand-waving about the U.S. commitment to Ukraine has thrown doubt on the future course of America’s foreign policy. That would be historic, as that would be the first time during Trump’s administration that we sell military equipment to Ukraine, since he took office. This decision may have a profound impact on the trajectory of the current mess.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the last to speak, reminded all of America’s commitment to Ukraine during such an important time in their history. He stated that the minerals deal signals a resolute stance, saying, “There is no daylight between the Ukrainian people and the American people, between our goals.” This makes good on the United States’ show of support for Ukraine during continued Russian hostilities.
This was an important announcement by the State Department. Julie Davis, an experienced foreign service officer, will take over the embassy’s operations on the ground in Ukraine’s capital of Kyiv. This appointment comes at an opportune moment. The U.S. is committed to pursuing a peace settlement that will bring an enduring end to the terrible bloodshed in Ukraine. Davis is taking over from former ambassador Bridget Brink, who was nominated last year but announced her resignation from the role last month.
According to Ivan Fedorov, Zaporizhzhia’s mayor, Russian forces on Monday struck at least ten civilian targets in the capital. More insidiously, they targeted private homes and critical infrastructure. This attack serves as a brutal reminder that civilians continue to suffer during the pursuit of diplomatic solutions.
During his visit, Barrot was in deep discussions with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham. He promised to coordinate the timing and content of EU sanctions with the US. This coordination is intended to show a strong, coordinated front against Russian aggression and continued support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Given that Pope Francis just welcomed Donald Trump to the periphery of his deathbed, the juxtaposition is striking. This “meaningful meeting” further drove home the importance of international relations and diplomacy in addressing the ongoing conflict alive in Ukraine today.
Tymofiy Mylovanov, President of the Kyiv School of Economics, expressed optimism regarding the recent minerals deal, stating that it appears fair and beneficial for Ukraine’s future. His remarks signal a building desire among Ukrainian officials to use their international partnerships to influence the shape of their recovery and modernization.
Even as these developments take shape, the situation in Ukraine is still evolving, with considerable implications for regional stability and international relations. The European Union’s next round of sanctions will be particularly consequential. At the same time, continued U.S. support will make profound military and diplomatic differences in the Ukraine conflict.