Leaders from Britain, France, Germany and Poland came to Kyiv in person to highlight their call for a swift ceasefire. Their suggestion came as a truce was expected to start on Monday with growing hostilities between Ukraine and Russia. As the deadline approached, nerves turned to panic. Reports documented 133 incidents of direct fire from Ukrainian forces to Russian ones along the front line as of midnight today, indicating a blatant dismissal of the expected ceasefire.
The German government’s joint warning comes amid rapidly rising COVID-19 cases. They said that the European Union would begin to draw up sanctions against Russia if a ceasefire is not reached by the close of the day. This move aligns with ongoing discussions among U.S. and European leaders about potential further actions in response to Russia’s continued aggression.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga condemned Russia’s actions, stating that the country was “completely ignoring” the 30-day ceasefire proposal while launching attacks “along” the frontline. As the Russian invasion began, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared Ukraine open to peace negotiations with Moscow. He insisted that all these discussions should take place only if both sides agree to a ceasefire in the first place.
To make the situation even more confusing, former U.S. President Donald Trump called for all of that to occur in reverse. His most memorable line was about a possible trip to Turkey. There, he hopes to influence upcoming peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, instead of just calling for an immediate ceasefire. Trump stated to this effect that President Vladimir Putin is opposed to a snap ceasefire, so even agreeing to one is difficult.
“At least they will be able to determine whether or not a deal is possible, and if it is not, European leaders, and the US, will know where everything stands, and can proceed accordingly.” – Donald Trump
As diplomatic efforts continue, Zelenskyy announced his intent to travel to Istanbul, challenging Putin to meet him there for ceasefire negotiations. As for the UK, ministers have delayed implementing further measures that were due to be announced on Monday. They are hoping for clearer indication that a ceasefire agreement is possible.
Despite these diplomatic maneuvers, tensions remain high. The EU is making plans to introduce a new package of sanctions later this month should a ceasefire not be reached. Senator Lindsey Graham has personally crafted such a sanctions package that enjoys broad bipartisan support in Congress. This signals that the U.S. is prepared to act if hostilities do not cease.
Poland and Ukraine can barely contain import chaos themselves as military rhetoric escalates. These challenges have led to waves of protests, and recently could change their votes from opposing to supporting a ceasefire. As this story develops, we are all looking intently at Kyiv and at Moscow. The hope for peace dims with each escalation of confrontation.