KYIV — The leaders of France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine issued a joint statement on Saturday calling for a full and unconditional ceasefire in the war in Ukraine, beginning Monday, May 12, and lasting for at least 30 days.

Meeting in Kyiv, the five leaders agreed that the ceasefire must be total—on land, at sea, and in the air—and insisted that no preconditions be attached.

They stated that any attempt by Russia to impose conditions would be seen as an effort to prolong the war and undermine diplomatic efforts.

The leaders emphasized that the ceasefire period should allow space for diplomacy to focus on building the political, security, and humanitarian foundations of a future peace.

They also called for robust monitoring of the ceasefire, to be coordinated closely with the United States.

They welcomed the alignment of both Europe and the U.S. in supporting the ceasefire initiative and reaffirmed the importance of strengthening Ukraine’s Defense and Security Forces as the cornerstone of the country’s sovereignty.

A reassurance force or international contingent was cited as a potential element of long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.

The leaders agreed that if Russia rejects the ceasefire terms, new and stronger sanctions targeting its banking and energy sectors—including fossil fuels, oil, and the so-called shadow fleet—should be introduced.

They committed to passing a 17th EU sanctions package and to coordinating efforts with the United Kingdom, Norway, and the United States.

Additionally, the statement highlighted plans to continue discussions on utilizing frozen Russian assets, with the issue set to be reviewed at the upcoming G7 summit.

They also reiterated their readiness to reinforce Ukraine’s defense capabilities through sustained funding, enhanced resilience, and joint investment in arms production both in Ukraine and across Europe. — Agencies