**Ukraine’s Allies to Increase Pressure on Russia, Macron Says**
In an interview with Paris Match, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that Ukraine’s allies will “increase pressure on Russia” in the coming days to reach a ceasefire. This comes as the United States intensifies efforts to broker a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia.
Macron stated that part of the equation depends on Moscow, and that he remains cautious about a ceasefire. He emphasized the need for unity and dissuasiveness among allies, saying that they have succeeded in putting pressure back on Russia thanks to recent meetings at the Vatican. The French President denounced efforts to put pressure solely on Ukraine, instead advocating for concessions from both sides.
**US Imposes Pressure on Russia**
The US has reportedly considered recognizing Russian control of Crimea and barring Kyiv from pursuing NATO membership as part of a peace deal. This has been met with resistance from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who sees this as unacceptable. Trump recently stated that he believes Zelensky is willing to cede control of Crimea to Russia.
**Pressure on Russia to Intensify**
Macron emphasized the need for allies to toughen their stance on Russia to obtain a ceasefire. He claimed to have convinced Americans of the possibility of an escalation of threats and sanctions to push the Russians to accept a ceasefire.
**Putin Announces Humanitarian Truce**
On April 28, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a so-called “humanitarian” truce in Russia’s war against Ukraine to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. However, this has been met with skepticism from Zelensky and most European nations, who view it as an attempt to distract from Russia’s continued aggression.
**Ukraine Rejects Putin’s Proposal**
Zelensky slammed Putin’s proposal for a short-lived truce, pointing out that Russia continues to strike civilian targets. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing human lives over parades and military displays.
The article highlights the growing tension between Ukraine’s allies and Russia as the world waits for a ceasefire.
