**World Leaders Move to Protect Potential Ukraine Ceasefire**
The UK’s Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has announced that military planning to protect a potential ceasefire in Ukraine is moving to an “operational phase”. This comes after a virtual meeting with 29 other world leaders.
**Military Chiefs to Meet**
On Thursday, military chiefs will gather in the UK to make plans for how their militaries can support Ukraine. Sir Keir said this meeting will help put “strong and robust plans” in place to guarantee Ukraine’s future security if a peace deal is agreed upon.
**Leaders Agree on Action**
The virtual meeting followed Ukraine agreeing to a 30-day ceasefire after talks with the US. Russian President Vladimir Putin supported the idea but set some pre-conditions for peace. Leaders agreed that if Putin refuses an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, they will increase pressure to convince him to negotiate.
**Pressure on Russia**
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said “active pressure is needed, not just talks”. He urged European countries to produce their own weapons as soon as possible and for the US to impose full sanctions and strong pressure on Russia. Zelensky also called for forcing Russia to make peace.
**Next Steps**
Leaders agreed that if Putin refuses an immediate ceasefire, they will “ratchet up pressure” to convince him to negotiate. To deliver this, the UK will accelerate military support and tighten sanctions on Russia’s revenues. Military chiefs will explore all lawful routes to ensure Russia pays for the damage it has done to Ukraine.
**Coalition of the Willing**
Sir Keir introduced the idea of a “coalition of the willing” to defend a ceasefire earlier this month. This coalition now includes backing from Japan and others. The UK is ready to put troops in Ukraine as part of a peace deal, and other European countries are being asked to commit to concrete security guarantees.
**Thousands Killed**
Since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, thousands of people have been killed. World leaders are working towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
