The United States, in a surprising move, voted against a European resolution at the United Nations General Assembly, standing alongside Russia, Israel, North Korea, Sudan, Belarus, Hungary, and 11 other states. This decision comes amid complex international discussions on how to achieve a lasting peace in Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron has advocated for a nuanced approach that involves not just a truce but a broader peace deal with security guarantees for Ukraine. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump has been actively engaging with Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent weeks.
The UN Security Council passed a resolution after intense negotiations. However, key U.S. allies, the United Kingdom and France, abstained from voting. Their attempts to amend the wording were vetoed, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic challenges. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remains hopeful for a resolution, expressing his desire to conclude the war within the year during an event in Kyiv.
"We hope that we can finish this war this year." – Volodymyr Zelensky
The European Union and the UK have imposed new sanctions on Russia, focusing on its aluminum exports and so-called "shadow fleet" of ships allegedly used to bypass existing sanctions. These measures underscore Europe's determination to apply pressure on Moscow amidst warming ties between Washington and the Kremlin.
French President Macron has led efforts to craft a peace plan that avoids compromising Ukraine's sovereignty. He emphasized the need for security guarantees to accompany any agreement.
"We want peace swiftly but we don't want an agreement that is weak." – Emmanuel Macron
Macron praised Trump's recent diplomatic engagement with Putin, acknowledging the strategic necessity behind these interactions.
"No, to be frank, we paid. We paid 60% of the total effort." – Emmanuel Macron
"If you believe that, it's OK with me." – Donald Trump
Trump has called for an immediate ceasefire, expressing willingness to visit Russia to finalize a peace agreement once it is in place. He suggested that Europe should bear the financial burden of any peacekeeping efforts in Ukraine.
"They would not be along the front lines. They would not be part of any conflict. They would be there to ensure that the peace is respected." – Emmanuel Macron
The United States and Russia supported a U.S.-drafted resolution at the Security Council, which called for an end to hostilities but notably omitted any criticism of Russian actions.
In a broader European context, Macron revealed discussions with 30 European leaders and allies who showed readiness to participate in securing Ukraine's future.
"Russia may have gained an open ear in the White House but they have not gained an inch of legitimacy." – Frank-Walter Steinmeier
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier commented on the evolving dynamics between Moscow and Washington, emphasizing that while diplomatic channels may be opening, they do not equate to legitimacy for Russian actions.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the urgency of military support for Ukraine.
"We must speed up the delivery of weapons and ammunition." – Ursula von der Leyen
As diplomatic efforts continue, Macron remains optimistic that a truce can be reached soon. Trump echoed this sentiment, predicting that peace could be achieved within weeks.
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