In a video conference convened by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on March 15, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for decisive international action to take the first steps toward ending the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Zelenskyy emphasized that stronger sanctions on Russia, solid security guarantees for Ukraine, and increased investment in defense production were key measures to ensure lasting peace.
Zelenskyy highlighted that sanctions against Russia must not only be maintained but continuously strengthened. He urged the coalition members to work with their partners to increase these sanctions to exert more pressure on Russia. “Sanctions must be a tool that tightens over time, making Russia face the consequences of its aggression,” Zelenskyy stated.
In addition to economic measures, Zelenskyy stressed the importance of defining clear security guarantees for Ukraine. He pointed out that security is essential for ensuring that any peace achieved will be lasting and reliable.
“We must keep working on the contingents that will form the foundation of Europe’s future Armed Forces,” he said, underscoring the need for European military cooperation, supported by the United States, to bolster Ukraine’s defenses.
The Ukrainian president also emphasized the need for increased investment in defense production, both within Ukraine and across European countries. He noted that Ukraine’s defense industry is growing rapidly and should be further supported, particularly in the areas of air defense. “We all need protection, and I thank each of you who is helping us with this air defense,” Zelenskyy remarked, acknowledging the support Ukraine has received in this critical area.
Zelenskyy’s call was not limited to Europe and the G7; he urged the coalition to unite the world’s nations, including those in Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the Pacific, in the pursuit of peace. “We need to unite not only Europe and the G7 but also all other countries around the world for the sake of peace,” he said, emphasizing the importance of global solidarity in the face of Russia’s aggression.
The meeting was a significant step forward in the operational phase of the coalition of the willing, with military officials set to meet in the UK on Thursday to explore ways to reinforce a future peace agreement.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted that two key pressure points could push Russia to enter negotiations, signaling hope that diplomatic efforts might soon lead to a resolution of the conflict.
Zelenskyy’s message was clear: a multi-faceted approach combining sanctions, security guarantees, defense investment, and global unity is essential to ending the war and ensuring a peaceful future for Ukraine and Europe.
