A key meeting between the Ukrainian delegation and representatives of the “Decisive Coalition” has begun in Paris — an organization comprising leading European countries and the United States
This event is a logical continuation of Ukraine's diplomatic efforts to seek a long-term and just peace, as well as to ensure the country's security in the challenging modern realities. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga reported that the first meeting between the Ukrainian delegation and colleagues from France, Germany, and the United Kingdom has already taken place in the French capital. According to him, the participants discussed possible paths to achieving long-awaited peace, including issues such as a complete ceasefire, the creation of a multinational contingent to ensure stability, and the signing of security guarantees for Ukraine. These topics are extremely relevant and important, as they could form the basis for further diplomatic steps in the fight for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The background of this meeting is that on April 17, the heads of Ukrainian diplomacy, including the Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak and Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov, arrived in Paris to participate in negotiations with representatives of the "Decisive Coalition." At the same time, the Ukrainian delegation plans to meet with American diplomats: U.S. Secretary of State Mark Rutte and President's Envoy Steve Vitkoff. These negotiations are of great significance, as the participating countries are actively seeking options to guarantee security for Ukraine in the future, which is especially relevant ahead of further diplomatic steps and the possible implementation of new agreements. It is worth noting that France, together with the United Kingdom, is currently leading a group of leading Western countries developing proposals for security guarantees for Ukraine. This includes plans to create mechanisms that will help ensure long-term security and stability in the region, as well as strengthen Kyiv’s position in the face of aggression. Another important element of this diplomatic configuration is the presence of representatives from the United States in Paris, including the President's Envoy Steve Vitkoff. It should be emphasized that last week, Vitkoff met with Vladimir Putin, where he stated that the negotiations were "persuasive" and have the potential for finding a compromise. At the same time, he underscored that the prospect of signing a "peace" agreement depends on the status of five territories currently at the center of diplomatic discussions. Overall, this meeting in Paris carries not only symbolic significance but also an important practical outcome — the opportunity to advance security guarantees, seek compromises, and strengthen Ukraine’s diplomatic positions on the international stage. World leaders are striving to find a balance between supporting Kyiv and efforts to diplomatically resolve the ongoing conflict, and these negotiations are another step in that direction.