14 m. ago Ukraine war live: Macron calls for ‘direct talks’ between Russia and Ukraine as European leaders arrive in Kyiv

Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz and Donald Tusk are in Ukraine for talks with ZelenskyyIt is the first time the leaders of the four European nations (France, the UK, Germany and Poland) have made a joint visit to Ukraine, reports Agence France-Presse (AFP).“We are clear the bloodshed must end. Russia must stop its illegal invasion,” the leaders said in a joint statement, adding:Alongside the US, we call on Russia to agree a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire to create the space for talks on a just and lasting peace.We will continue to increase our support for Ukraine. Until Russia agrees to an enduring ceasefire, we will ratchet up pressure on Russia’s war machine. Continue reading...

Politics

19 h. ago France and Poland ‘open a new page’ in relations after signing new defence treaty – Europe live

France president and Poland’s leader have signed a defence and energy treatyLet’s bring you some more pictures from the Moscow parade earlier today, a not very subtle attempt as showing off the Russian military power.French president Emmanuel Macron posted a social media update on his last night’s phone call with US president Donald Trump.I spoke several times last night with @POTUS. I commend his strong call for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, as did our British and Nordic partners earlier this morning. Continue reading...

Politics

21 h. ago Russia stages Victory Day parade as EU ministers pledge further support for Ukraine – Europe live

EU representatives hold meeting in Lviv as Russia staged a lavish parade in Moscow to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the second world warLet’s bring you some more pictures from the Moscow parade earlier today, a not very subtle attempt as showing off the Russian military power.French president Emmanuel Macron posted a social media update on his last night’s phone call with US president Donald Trump.I spoke several times last night with @POTUS. I commend his strong call for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, as did our British and Nordic partners earlier this morning. Continue reading...

Politics

1 week ago Russia has offered a short ceasefire in Ukraine – but here’s what Putin really wants | Andriy Yermak

As part of the price for peace, Moscow would like sanctions on Russian airlines lifted. That’s no surprise: they’re vital to the Kremlin’s war machineOn Monday, the Kremlin offered a three-day pause in hostilities against Ukraine in May, to coincide with Moscow’s celebrations of the end of the second world war. In a context where Ukraine is calling for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, and the US a permanent one, Russia wants concessions before a lasting pause or permanent peace can even be discussed. Central to the Kremlin’s demands is the removal of sanctions – especially those restricting its aviation sector.We must be cautious not to make concessions prematurely, under the guise of quick progress. The short pause offered would not make a meaningful difference to the war, and accepting it would enable a regime that has repeatedly shown intent to prolong its war of aggression and undermine this chance for a just, fair and lasting peace.Andriy Yermak is head of the Ukrainian presi...

Politics

2 w. ago Ukraine insists on unconditional ceasefire at London peace talks.

Ukraine insists on unconditional ceasefire at London peace talks.  The Kyiv Independent

Events

3 w. ago Lammy says Russia must accept ‘unconditional ceasefire’ after US

The Foreign Secretary travelled to Paris for the first high-level discussions between British, French and White House officials since February.

Events