Kyiv and its Western partners have agreed on a multi-layered plan to monitor and enforce a potential ceasefire with Russia, involving a phased deployment of European forces and, in the event of repeated violations, direct military support from the United States, according to reports. This development comes as Russia launched a massive bombardment against Ukraine overnight, utilizing 450 drones and over 60 missiles.
The plan, as revealed by the Financial Times, envisions an initial phase with a European-led deterrence force, supported by U.S. Logistics and intelligence. Should the ceasefire be breached, a second phase would see the deployment of volunteer forces, culminating in a coordinated military response with direct U.S. Involvement.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is currently in Kyiv meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, demonstrating continued support for Ukraine amidst escalating tensions. Rutte affirmed NATO’s unwavering commitment, stating, “Your security is our security. Your peace is our peace. And it must be just and lasting, with Ukraine strong and free and with Russia aware that this reality will remain unchanged.” He acknowledged global attention may be diverted to other events but stressed that Ukraine’s needs remain paramount.
The visit follows a night of intense attacks, with Ukrainian officials reporting widespread damage to infrastructure. The attacks targeted civilian areas, including energy facilities and residential buildings, leaving over 1,100 homes in the Kyiv region without heating as temperatures plummet to -20°C. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Russia of attempting a “genocide” by deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure during the coldest months of the year.
President Zelenskyy stated that each Russian attack “confirms that the attitude in Moscow has not changed: they continue to bet on war and the destruction of Ukraine, and do not take diplomacy seriously.” He announced that Ukraine’s negotiating team will adapt its approach accordingly ahead of a new round of talks scheduled in Abu Dhabi.
Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced plans to host an international conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction in Danzig (Gdansk) in June. He emphasized the need for substantial investment and large-scale construction projects, inviting businesses and leaders from around the world to participate.
The Kremlin has responded to the increased international focus with continued assertions of its desire for a “long-term peace” settlement, though its actions on the ground suggest otherwise. Moscow confirmed conducting a “massive attack” targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure, claiming to have struck facilities used for drone production and energy supply.
The situation in the Kherson region remains volatile, with reports of Ukrainian shelling resulting in at least one death and four injuries. Russian officials claim Ukrainian forces are abandoning positions in the Sumy region.
U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to consider ceding land to Russia as part of a peace deal, a position that has drawn criticism but also reflects a desire to bring the conflict to a resolution. Trump also threatened Russia with tariffs while unveiling a new weapons plan for Ukraine.
European leaders are reportedly working to bolster Zelenskyy ahead of planned talks with Trump in Washington D.C., seeking to maintain a united front in support of Ukraine. The European Union is also defending its decision to halt Russian gas imports, facing a legal challenge from Hungary.
The recent escalation in hostilities appears to have ended a brief period of reduced attacks, which followed an agreement reportedly brokered by the United States. However, the resumption of intense bombardment suggests that a lasting ceasefire remains elusive. The situation is further complicated by the impending expiration of the New START treaty, a key agreement limiting strategic nuclear weapons, which Russia has warned could lead to a more dangerous global security environment.
The Ukrainian government is appealing for increased air defense capabilities and continued international pressure on Russia to halt its aggression. The coming days will be critical in determining whether diplomatic efforts can gain traction or whether the conflict will continue to escalate.
