No sanction relief for Russia despite Trump pledge amid hope for Black Sea ceasefire

European leaders have made it clear that they will not support President Donald Trump’s plans to help Russia re-enter the world market and lift international sanctions until Moscow ends its illegal war, effectively rendering the Black Sea truce ineffective. Despite the Trump administration’s negotiations with Ukraine and Russia, the Kremlin later confirmed that any ceasefire in the Black Sea would only be contingent on the removal of economic restrictions.

French President Emmanuel Macron stood alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and emphasized that Russia would not have a say in the support provided to Ukraine nor set any conditions. Macron stated that it was too early to discuss sanction relief and reiterated that the lifting of sanctions depended solely on Russia’s compliance with international law.

A coalition of 30 nations, including NATO leaders, met in Paris for a “Peace and Security Meeting for Ukraine” led by France and the U.K. as part of the “coalition of the willing.” The U.S. was notably absent from the summit, highlighting concerns about the reliability of the U.S. as a partner for Ukraine and Europe under the Trump administration.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the U.K. criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for his lack of seriousness in the peace talks and playing games with the agreed naval ceasefire in the Black Sea. Macron and the U.K. reaffirmed their commitment to supporting U.S. efforts for progress despite Russian obfuscation.

France pledged an additional $2.1 billion for Ukraine in its fight against Russia, with more support expected to be announced. The White House did not respond to inquiries about the collapse of the Black Sea ceasefire, but a spokesperson emphasized President Trump’s belief in diplomacy and giving negotiations a chance to succeed.

Overall, European leaders are standing firm in their insistence that Russia must end its aggression before any sanctions relief or economic support can be considered. The unity among European nations and their commitment to defending Ukraine’s future signal a coordinated effort to confront Russian aggression and support Ukraine in its struggle for sovereignty.