Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – On Saturday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed support for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire proposal in the ongoing Russian war in Ukraine. She also indicated that the EU is prepared to impose additional sanctions on Russia if the ceasefire is violated.
In March, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen voiced her support for discussions between the US and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, which involve a new proposal for a ceasefire agreement and the reinstatement of US intelligence sharing and security assistance.
“The ball is now in Russia’s court,”
Von der Leyen wrote on social media platform X.
“We stand ready to maintain strong pressure on Russia and impose further biting sanctions in the event of a breach of a ceasefire,”
She announced now.
How united are the EU and U.S. positions on Ukraine?
U.S. President Donald Trump urged a 30-day unconditional ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, cautioning that Washington and its allies would impose additional sanctions if the ceasefire is violated.
In recent weeks, France, Britain, and Germany have sought to strengthen their coordination with Washington. Two weeks ago, they resisted certain U.S. proposals regarding the resolution of Russia’s war in Ukraine, offering counterproposals on matters ranging from territory to sanctions, according to Reuters.
According to the source, discussions continue regarding whether to declare a unilateral ceasefire or to allow Russia a brief response period. If Russia declines, new sanctions from the U.S. and EU will be enforced against Moscow.
Are Russia and Ukraine likely to accept the ceasefire proposal?
Ukraine is prepared to accept the U.S. proposal. Meanwhile, Russia has announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire from May 8 to 10, in alignment with the 80th anniversary of World War Two’s conclusion.
“We’re not completely with a finalised project, but we hope that we’re at a moment of convergence,”
Said the diplomatic source, speaking on condition of anonymity.
“What could happen in the coming hours and days, there could be an announcement of a ceasefire either of 30 days or compartmentalised, which is still being discussed.”
