Weimar+ countries demand immediate ceasefire from Russia and withdrawal of ultimatums
Photo: meeting of the Weimar+ group countries held in Rome (x.com/Antonio_Tajani)
Russia must immediately agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. Moscow also needs to abandon its ultimatum-style demands toward Kyiv, according to a statement from the countries of the Weimar+ group.
The joint statement was made by the foreign ministers of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the EU High Representative following a meeting in Rome, where they discussed Euro-Atlantic security and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also took part in the meeting.
In the statement, the countries of the Weimar+ group emphasized their unwavering support for Ukraine, its people, its democracy, its security, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
"A strong, independent, and democratic Ukraine is vital for the stability and security of the Euro-Atlantic area," the statement read.
Peace efforts and demands toward Russia
The ministers also expressed support for US efforts and the recent peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. They noted that Kyiv’s constructive participation in the process "demonstrates a strong commitment to peace."
They welcomed Ukraine’s readiness for an immediate and unconditional 30-day ceasefire.
"We urged Russia to reciprocate without further delay, and to drop its unacceptable maximalist demands and preconditions, to prove it is genuinely interested in peace," the statement said.
The ministers of the Weimar+ countries also condemned the recent Russian attacks on peaceful Ukrainian cities and their residents, calling them a blatant violation of international law.
Sanctions against Russia
"To that end, we reiterated our readiness to step up our pressure on Russia as it continues to refuse serious and credible commitments, including through further sanctions and countering their circumvention," the foreign ministers of the six countries added.
They assured that they are prepared to take measures that will undermine Russia’s ability to continue waging its aggressive war.
Support for Ukraine
The countries of the Weimar+ format also added that they are ready to strengthen support for Ukraine, including by improving cooperation in the defense industry and exploring additional forms of security and defense collaboration.
Russia refuses a ceasefire
Russia opposes the idea of a ceasefire with Ukraine for at least 30 days without its conditions. Moscow justifies this position by claiming that Ukraine could become stronger during that time.
Recently, the Russians handed Ukrainian officials a memorandum with demands for a ceasefire and the end of the war. Specifically, to stop the fighting, Russia wants Ukraine to begin withdrawing troops from four regions.
