EUROPEAN LEADERS PUSH FOR NEW CEASEFIRE TALKS AS UKRAINE WAR ENTERS FIFTH YEAR

LONDON (AP) — European leaders are renewing efforts to support possible ceasefire negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, as diplomatic activity surrounding the war intensifies despite continued fighting along the front lines.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in London to discuss military assistance, air defense needs and prospects for future peace talks. The leaders expressed support for direct negotiations aimed at ending Europe's largest conflict since World War II.

Ukraine and Russia Face Renewed Diplomatic Pressure as Fighting Continues

The diplomatic push comes as Russian missile and drone attacks continue across Ukraine. Ukrainian officials reported civilian casualties in the northeastern Kharkiv region following overnight strikes, while authorities in Russian-controlled Crimea reported efforts to repel drone attacks.

At the same time, political debate is emerging within Europe over who should participate in any eventual peace process. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said Poland should be included in future negotiations, arguing that countries providing substantial military and financial support to Ukraine deserve a role in shaping any settlement.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously stated that Moscow remains open to negotiations but has maintained that Russia's military objectives and territorial interests must be addressed in any agreement. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to seek security guarantees and international support before entering a final settlement.

Military operations continue despite the diplomatic activity. Ukrainian officials say the country has regained territory during recent operations, while Russian authorities maintain that their forces are advancing in several sectors. Independent verification of all battlefield claims remains difficult because of ongoing combat conditions.

The latest diplomatic efforts are unlikely to produce an immediate breakthrough, but they signal continued international pressure to explore a negotiated path toward ending a conflict that has reshaped European security and international relations.