After British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced he was ready to send British soldiers to Ukraine for peacekeeping, Germany and Norway quickly criticized the statement as premature. Meanwhile, Sweden emphasized the need for a fair and lasting peace agreement based on international law.

Germany Criticizes Premature Peacekeeping Plans

Germany rejected the idea of sending troops to Ukraine. Christiane Hoffmann, the German deputy government spokeswoman, explained that it was too early to discuss such plans. She stressed that peace talks should focus on finding lasting solutions. “Peace talks without Europe ultimately make no sense at all,” Hoffmann added, highlighting Europe’s key role.

Sweden Open to Peacekeeping, But Focuses on Negotiation

On the other hand, Sweden’s Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said her country would not rule out peacekeeping forces. However, she emphasized the need for a fair peace agreement first. “We must first now negotiate a fair and sustainable peace that respects international law,” she stated.

Spain: Peace Still Far Off

In contrast, Spain’s Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, pointed out that Europeans were not planning to send troops yet. He argued that peace was still a distant goal.

Hungary Criticizes European Leaders’ Conference

Similarly, Hungary’s Foreign Minister, Peter Szijjarto, criticized the Paris conference. He claimed it was an effort to prevent a peace deal in Ukraine.

European Leaders Meet in Paris

In response to the shifting US policy on Ukraine, European leaders gathered in Paris. The meeting came after President Donald Trump reached out to Russian President Putin. Leaders from France, Germany, Britain, and others attended, along with representatives from NATO and the European Commission.

US and Russia Diplomats Meet in Saudi Arabia

Meanwhile, top US and Russian diplomats will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss the war. Kyiv was not invited to the talks. Russia has demanded NATO pull back from Eastern Europe before agreeing to any peace terms.

Zelensky’s Visit to Saudi Arabia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will visit Saudi Arabia next. However, he has ruled out talks with US or Russian officials. He is willing to meet Putin only after a unified peace plan is in place.

European Commission Shows Support for Ukraine

Finally, the European Commission will visit Ukraine next week to mark the third anniversary of the invasion. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other officials will show support for Ukraine amid changing US policies.