E3 leaders support direct Ukraine-Russia dialogue, call for ceasefire

Alsharq Tribune-M.Essam 

The leaders of Britain, France and Germany, collectively known as the E3, on Sunday voiced support for direct dialogue between Ukraine and Russia aimed at achieving a ceasefire and advancing peace negotiations, following talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in London.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz issued a joint statement with Zelensky after the meeting, saying they backed direct Ukraine-Russia talks with the active participation of the United States and Europe.

The four leaders called for an immediate and complete ceasefire, saying the current line of contact should serve as the starting point for negotiations.

According to the statement, Europe should play an important role in the peace process, with relevant efforts conducted in close coordination with Ukraine, European partners and the United States.

The leaders also discussed post-ceasefire security arrangements for Ukraine. The statement said European security interests should be safeguarded in any agreement and noted that matters relating to the European Union and NATO would require the consent of their respective members.