UK Rejects Ambassador’s Call for Ukraine to Declare Ceasefire Before Russia

UK Pushes for Unified Approach to Ukraine Peace Talks Amid Diverging Views

The UK is working to align positions among its allies regarding peace efforts in Ukraine, as differences emerge over the best approach.

Speaking on the situation, Peter Mandelson emphasized the need for a coordinated effort between the United States, Ukraine, and European nations. “The reset must involve the United States and Ukraine being on the same page, with President Zelenskyy fully supporting President Trump’s initiative to end the war and achieve a just and lasting peace,” Mandelson stated. “European nations must also back calls for a cease-fire. In fact, Ukraine should take the lead in committing to a cease-fire, challenging Russia to follow suit.”

However, UK Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard distanced himself from Mandelson’s remarks. “That is not government policy,” Pollard told Sky News on Monday. “We are still in discussions and engaging diplomatically with our European, U.S., and Ukrainian partners to shape any potential deal.”

The clarification comes as the UK positions itself as a leader among a “coalition of the willing”—a group of countries prepared to deploy peacekeeping forces to Ukraine if a cease-fire is reached. However, London maintains that lasting peace depends on American air support to deter further Russian aggression.

Disagreement Over Proposed One-Month Truce

Pollard also refrained from endorsing French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent proposal for a limited one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine.

Macron suggested in an interview with Le Figaro that he and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer were advocating for a temporary cease-fire covering air, sea, and energy infrastructure, with European troops arriving only at a later stage.

But when asked about these claims, Pollard said no formal agreement had been reached. “I don’t recognize that specific proposal,” he told Times Radio on Monday. “There is currently no settled definition of what a truce would entail.”

While he did not disclose details regarding any potential peace framework or security guarantees, Pollard described ongoing discussions as “positive,” acknowledging that European nations agree on the need to escalate their involvement in Ukraine’s security.