EU, Ukraine say US-backed ceasefire proposal could be key step toward peace if Russia accepts

ISTANBUL

The European Union and Ukraine said Wednesday that a ceasefire proposal discussed during recent talks between US and Ukrainian delegations in Saudi Arabia could mark an important step toward peace but stressed that it is now up to Russia to show a willingness to end its "aggression."

Gathering in Brussels for the 10th meeting of the EU-Ukraine Association Council, both sides expressed cautious optimism over diplomatic efforts aimed at halting Russia’s full-scale war while reiterating their condemnation of Moscow’s actions.

"The Council stressed that the proposal of a ceasefire, if accepted by Russia, can be an important step in this direction and that it is now (time) for Russia to show its willingness to achieve peace," said a joint statement following the high-level talks.

The meeting was chaired by Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, with the EU delegation led by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos also took part in the session.

The EU reaffirmed its support for a "comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law" and welcomed the outcome of the Saudi-hosted talks.

While noting diplomatic progress, the EU and Ukraine also strongly condemned continued Russian attacks on civilians, including a recent strike on residential neighborhoods in Kryvyi Rih that killed 20 people, including nine children.

"Russia’s recent brutal attack against residential neighborhoods in Kryvyi Rih…may constitute a grave violation of international humanitarian law and could amount to war crimes," the statement said.

The Council said that indiscriminate attacks are prohibited under international humanitarian law and highlighted the need to hold Russia fully accountable for its aggression and other serious international crimes. It also welcomed ongoing work toward establishing a special tribunal on the crime of aggression.

Meanwhile, the EU confirmed its commitment to Ukraine’s defense, sovereignty and EU integration.

It noted that overall EU assistance to Ukraine since the start of the war had reached €144 billion ($157.6 billion), including €49.6 billion in military aid.

The Council also welcomed Ukraine’s reform progress and reaffirmed the bloc’s support for its EU accession process. It underscored that "the future of Ukraine and its citizens lies within the European Union."

Despite the war, both sides noted that EU-Ukraine trade continues to grow, with discussions ongoing to deepen cooperation in defense, trade and space as well as in public administration and the rule of law.

The EU underlined that Russian assets "should remain immobilized until Russia ceases its war of aggression against Ukraine and compensates it for the damage caused."