**Western Leaders Back Ukraine at Virtual Summit**
Leaders from 25 countries met in a virtual summit hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on March 15. They discussed forming a post-war peacekeeping force for Ukraine.
The meeting brought together countries that could contribute troops to the coalition. The UK and France have already committed to sending troops. Other leaders, like Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, pledged support for Ukraine.
**Support for Ukraine**
Albanese said Australia would stand with Ukraine “for as long as it takes.” He also mentioned contributing to future peacekeeping efforts.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated that Ukraine needs a just and lasting peace. French President Emmanuel Macron criticized Russia’s actions, saying they don’t show good faith in peace talks.
**Pressure on Russia**
Macron argued that collective Western pressure is necessary for peace. Finland’s President Alexander Stubb expressed willingness to support Ukraine but was cautious about direct military involvement.
The virtual summit highlighted growing pressure on Russia to engage in meaningful peace talks and reinforced Western unity in supporting Ukraine.
**Ukraine Update**
Two girls, aged 11 and 3 years old, were injured in attacks. The children are being treated at a medical facility.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine has observed areas along its eastern border where the Russian army is amassing force. He announced a new peace delegation including his foreign minister and defense minister.
**Ukraine-Russia Conflict**
Ukrainian soldiers fighting on the front line assert that stopping Russia remains on the battlefield.
Ukrainian defense forces intercepted 130 out of the 178 Russian attack drones launched at Ukraine during an overnight assault. The UK Prime Minister hosted an online summit on March 15 to discuss peace efforts with countries willing to contribute troops.
**Global Reaction**
A German parliamentary coalition agreed to allocate 3 billion euros in new military aid to Ukraine. A U.S. senator, Mark Kelly, sold his Tesla Model S after Elon Musk called him a “traitor” for visiting Ukraine despite paused military aid.
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