‘The Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Andriy Sybiha, called me right after the meeting with the US had concluded, and he was far more optimistic than just a week ago. The ball is now in Russia’s court, as the US is set to propose a 30-day ceasefire to them‘.

‘It is positive that the US is also willing to put pressure on Russia to accept a ceasefire. However, a ceasefire is not a lasting solution‘.

‘There are many remaining issues to be solved. Genuine negotiations on a resolution have yet to be established. Compared to the meeting in Washington nearly two weeks ago, this marks a clear step forward in the cooperation between Ukraine and the US. It remains crucial that Europe has a seat at the table if and when peace negotiations take place‘.