European powers are currently engaged in secretive coordination of diplomatic maneuvers, gearing up for their next strategic moves. According to diplomats, France and Britain are on track to finalize a peace plan with Ukraine, a process that could see completion within a matter of days. This plan is intended to be presented to the United States, with the goal of fostering closer relationships between Washington and Kyiv in preparation for potential talks. President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Keir Starmer have been actively involved, separately engaging in discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. These interactions come in the wake of a tense meeting between the U.S. and Ukrainian presidents last Friday, resulting in the suspension of U.S. military aid to Kyiv.
The strained ties between the U.S. and Ukraine have spurred urgent efforts by the European nuclear powers to formulate a peace plan. Initial discussions focus on establishing a short-term truce, coupled with broader security assurances for the future. Both Britain and France have emphasized the necessity of U.S. involvement in providing ongoing guarantees. A senior European diplomat revealed that the aim is to swiftly craft this plan, ensuring alignment of all key elements, including fostering improved communication between Washington and Kyiv. The message being conveyed to the U.S. is a clear identification of Russia as the primary aggressor in the situation.
Upon meeting the necessary conditions, the plan could pave the way for further discussions in Washington, potentially involving European leaders and President Trump. The specifics of the plan remain undisclosed, with military officials working diligently to finalize the military aspects in the coming week. Among the proposed options is a partial one-month truce, targeting attacks by air and sea as well as assaults on energy infrastructure, while omitting ground combat. This initiative is expected to garner support from France, Britain, and a coalition of other willing nations, as indicated by diplomats.
President Zelenskiy expressed willingness to engage in negotiations and endorse the proposed truce during a recent statement. Meanwhile, France’s government spokeswoman, Sophie Primas, hinted at the possibility of a visit involving Macron, Starmer, and Zelenskiy, although the French presidency promptly clarified that such plans are not currently in motion. The overarching objective of these diplomatic efforts is to establish a bridge for reconnection between the United States and Ukraine, a mission underscored by Primas in her recent remarks on LCI television.
