A coalition of determined nations demands an immediate ceasefire from Russia: an unconditional 30-day “silence period” to begin on May 12
In the light of recent diplomatic efforts and the international community’s endeavors, countries broadly known as the “Coalition of Determined” have issued a unified statement calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Ukraine. They insist that the Russian Federation, starting from May 12, initiate a so-called “unconditional 30-day” pause in fighting, which should present an opportunity for diplomacy and the search for a political solution. This important initiative was announced during a joint press conference in Kyiv, attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and leaders of leading European countries including France, Germany, Poland, and the United Kingdom. The deputy head of this diplomatic coalition emphasizes that the agreement to unanimously demand a ceasefire became a key outcome of the recent meeting. In his speech, Zelensky highlighted that the main achievement of these focused diplomatic efforts is precisely the agreement on beginning that “unconditional and comprehensive” pause in hostilities. “We unanimously demand that Russia cease fire in all sectors — in the air, at sea, and on land. This is crucial to stop this catastrophe and to give real room for diplomacy,” Zelensky stressed. “We expect that the monitoring of this ceasefire can be fully established in cooperation with the United States, which has already confirmed its support.” According to the Ukrainian president, the term “30 days” is no coincidence. It signifies a period during which the global community must establish a favorable political and security framework for long-term peace. Zelensky warns that any attempts to set conditions or prolong the situation will be signs of an intent to “drag out the war and derail diplomatic efforts.” Therefore, the ceasefire must be unconditional, inclusive, and apply across all conflict fronts — in the air, at sea, and on land. A key condition is also the establishment of comprehensive monitoring, possible through close cooperation with the U.S. Discussing next steps, Zelensky announced that during these 30 days, the focus will be on defining key security arrangements, political guarantees, and humanitarian measures aimed at creating conditions for sustainable peace. He believes this is a “window of opportunity” for negotiations capable of changing the situation in the shortest possible time. Finally, the words of the Ukrainian leader were confirmed by French President Emmanuel Macron. He stated that international monitoring of the ceasefire during its active period will primarily be ensured by representatives from the United States, although other “coalition” member countries will also participate in this responsible mission. “This will enable an immediate start to the negotiations regarding specific infrastructure issues and security guarantees,” Macron added. Another important precautionary stance is that, in the event of a violation of the ceasefire regime, the global community has already prepared and is coordinating the application of broad sanctions mechanisms. The French president emphasized that these sanctions will be massive and immediate, serving as a response to any provocations or breaches of the ceasefire. They are planned to be implemented as soon as possible, ensuring unity and coordination between the U.S. and European allies. These announcements followed phone conversations between Zelensky and leaders of Germany, France, Poland, and the UK with U.S. President Donald Trump. They reaffirmed their support for the strategy of peaceful settlement and underscored the importance of a swift start to the ceasefire, which aims to inaugurate a new phase of diplomatic efforts. Thus, May 12 is not just an ordinary day. It is, in a way, a test of the international community’s resolve and ability to unite for peace, to halt the destructive conflict, and to lay the groundwork for long-term stability. Whether the sides will adhere to the agreement and find a dialogue pathway depends on their will and the united efforts of international diplomacy.