European Allies Increase Support for Ukraine, Urge Russia to Ceasefire

European ministers convened in Madrid, pledging to bolster aid for Ukraine and discuss further sanctions against Russia, while calling for an immediate ceasefire and a balanced peace process. They emphasized a commitment to providing military, political, and humanitarian support to Ukraine, asserting that any peace agreement must ensure robust security guarantees. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged Russia to demonstrate goodwill by returning deported Ukrainian children and releasing prisoners of war, while also calling for U.S. pressure on the Kremlin to cease hostilities. The meeting also addressed the potential use of frozen Russian assets for financing aid and the establishment of a special court for prosecuting war crimes. Additionally, Poland's Foreign Minister highlighted that the decision regarding foreign peacekeeping troops rests with Kyiv, reflecting ongoing discussions about international involvement in the conflict. European leaders reiterated their refusal to limit Ukraine's defense capabilities amid these diplomatic efforts.