France and the United Kingdom have put forward a proposal for a one-month ceasefire in Ukraine, focusing on protecting air, sea, and energy infrastructure. This initiative follows high-level discussions in London, French President Emmanuel Macron disclosed on Sunday, as reported by AFP.
In an interview with Le Figaro, Macron explained that the proposed truce would not initially cover ground combat due to the challenges in ensuring compliance across the extensive frontline. He suggested that peacekeepers might be introduced at a later stage but ruled out the deployment of European troops to Ukraine in the immediate future.
Macron also called for increased defense spending among European nations, recommending a budget of 3.0 to 3.5 percent of GDP to counter Russia’s rising military expenditures and shifting US strategic priorities. “Russia has been dedicating 10 percent of its GDP to defense for the past three years. We must be prepared for the future,” he cautioned.
In a separate conversation with Italy’s Il Foglio, Macron underscored Italy’s essential role in managing the Ukraine crisis. However, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni downplayed the possibility of her country participating in a peacekeeping mission, asserting that such a move had “never been considered.”
“Italy remains a key partner— a strong Italy is necessary— collaborating with France and Germany as part of the major global powers,” Macron stated, emphasizing the need for European unity in addressing the ongoing conflict.
