Zelensky considers an immediate ceasefire as the first step toward a peace settlement. Negotiations must then follow regarding security guarantees from the United States and European allies. These guarantees are meant to prevent Russia from attacking again later. Ukraine also wants agreements on reconstruction and the return of refugees.
Current frontline
Zelensky publicly spoke for the first time about "freezing the current front" after American mediators held talks with President Putin. Zelensky wants to negotiate a complete ceasefire, including American and European guarantees. Moscow has stated it is willing to negotiate a ceasefire in a few weeks, but nothing concrete has been agreed upon yet.
As far as is known, this is the first time Zelensky has hinted at the possibility that Ukraine accepts Russia's continued occupation of part of the eastern border region (Donetsk and Luhansk). However, he demands "guarantees" (and thus: involvement) from Americans and Europeans that Putin will permanently halt his advance westward.
NATO weapons
In addition, Brussels is preparing further travel restrictions for Russian citizens. Work is also underway on an entry ban for Russian soldiers who have participated in the war. European countries are also concerned about sabotage and attacks on Starlink communication systems, while Ukraine will gain more possibilities to acquire NATO weapons.
Meanwhile, NATO will strengthen air surveillance over the Black Sea by deploying drones and patrol and radar aircraft. These measures follow recent Russian attacks on civilian merchant ships. The number of planes to be deployed and which NATO countries will provide them are not yet known.
Black Sea
The European Parliament wants to go further and calls for a European military operation at sea. A resolution to this effect was adopted last week in Strasbourg with 432 votes in favor, 52 against, and 88 abstentions. The operation should enhance the safety of shipping and the eastern NATO countries.
EU politicians are also requesting additional support for Romania and Bulgaria in detecting hostile drones. They want better protection for underwater electricity and communication cables in the Black Sea. The Parliament also criticizes Bulgaria’s restrained response to the Russian threat.
According to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Russia has increased its attacks on Ukrainian export routes since mid-July. Merchant ships have also been targeted off the coasts of Romania and Bulgaria. Kallas warns that Russia is not only hitting Ukraine but also threatening the global food supply.
