In a major diplomatic development, the United States will hold high-level talks in Paris today with European allies to coordinate efforts to end the war in Ukraine. The meeting marks the most significant transatlantic engagement on the conflict since February.
Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and top diplomat Marco Rubio are leading the US delegation. They are scheduled to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron and senior members of his government. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy will also attend, alongside French and German foreign ministers and national security advisers from across Europe.
The US State Department confirmed the discussions will center on strategies to halt the fighting in Ukraine, with a particular focus on building momentum toward a ceasefire. Witkoff is expected to brief European leaders on his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Despite growing frustration in Europe over what some describe as Washington’s cautious engagement, today’s meetings are seen as a pivotal opportunity to strengthen unity and pressure Russia.
“We want the US to use a bit more stick,” one European diplomat said, underscoring the desire for firmer American action to compel Russia into an unconditional ceasefire.
The talks come just a day after mourners gathered in Stare Selo, north-eastern Ukraine, to bury a family killed in a Russian missile strike—an emotional reminder of the urgent need for peace.
