**Ukraine Peace Talks Begin**
On Wednesday, February 12, US President Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The leaders agreed to start negotiations to end the war in Ukraine “immediately”.
**European Markets Rise**
As a result of the peace talks, European stock markets are rising. Europe’s key stock index, STOXX 600, reached a new high. This growth was helped by gains in companies like Nestle and Siemens.
**Currencies Move Up**
The euro gained 0.3% against the dollar, reaching $1.041. The Swiss franc and Britain’s pound also rose by 0.3%, reaching $1.102 and $1.248 respectively.
**Peace Deal Positive for Europe**
A peace settlement in Ukraine would be good news for Europe, experts say. It could lead to lower energy costs and help with reconstruction programs. These plans are similar to the Marshall Plan, which helped rebuild Western Europe after World War II.
**Ukraine’s Government Bonds Rise**
Despite concerns about who will pay for post-war security and reconstruction in Ukraine, investors are hopeful about a peace deal. This has caused an increase in Ukraine’s government bonds.
**Oil Prices Fall**
The potential for a negotiated settlement of the war in Ukraine has led to a decline in oil prices for the second day running.
**European Business Association Urges Transparency**
The European Business Association (EBA) called on the Ukrainian government to release information about mineral deposits. They made this statement on February 13.
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