Zelensky and Europe join forces to draw up peace proposal
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has announced plans to work with European nations on a peace proposal to present to the United States. "We need peace, not endless war," he wrote on Telegram, stressing the need for European countries to present a united front, define their goals and set non-negotiable conditions.
Ukraine's allies met in London on Sunday, pledging increased defence spending and forming a coalition to support a possible ceasefire. The summit followed criticism from US president Donald Trump, who accused Zelensky of refusing to compromise with Russia.
While the US is engaged in separate peace talks with Moscow, the UK and France have signalled support for a limited ceasefire to halt airstrikes, naval battles and attacks on energy infrastructure. On Monday, however, British Defence minister Luke Pollard said Paris and London had not agreed on a proposed one-month ceasefire in Ukraine, which French president Emmanuel Macron mentioned on Sunday night.
Minerals deal
Meanwhile, Zelensky has confirmed his willingness to sign a minerals deal with the US. The deal was originally due to be finalised on Friday, but was delayed after a disrupted meeting with the US president at the White House.
"The agreement that's on the table will be signed when the parties are ready," Zelensky told British media on Sunday night.
The preliminary deal includes the creation of an investment fund for Ukraine's reconstruction, to be managed jointly by Kyiv and Washington. Ukraine will contribute 50 per cent of future revenues from state mineral resources, oil and gas to the fund, which will be used to promote the country's security and prosperity.
The agreement also stipulates that the US government will maintain a long-term financial commitment, subject to its legal framework, to ensure Ukraine's economic stability and development.
© PHOTO SEAN KILPATRICK / THE CANADIAN PRESS VIA ZUMA PRESS
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