Mon Mar 03 00:19:53 UTC 2025: ## Macron Proposes One-Month Ukraine Truce; Europe Urged to Boost Defence Spending
**London, March 3, 2025** – French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed a one-month ceasefire in Ukraine, encompassing air, sea, and energy infrastructure, following crisis talks in London with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The truce, however, would not initially include ground combat due to the difficulty of monitoring compliance across the extensive frontline. Deployment of peacekeepers is envisioned for a later stage, with Macron emphasizing that no European troops will be deployed to Ukraine in the coming weeks.
This proposal comes amid a broader discussion on bolstering European defence capabilities. Macron urged European nations to increase their defence spending to 3-3.5% of GDP, citing Russia’s significant military investment (10% of GDP) over the past three years and a perceived shift in US priorities.
The initiative received a mixed reaction. While the UK is working with Ukraine on ending the war and presented a plan to the US (according to Starmer), Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appeared to rule out Italian participation in any peacekeeping force. Macron nevertheless stressed the importance of a strong Italy in resolving the Ukrainian conflict. The ongoing discussions highlight the complexities of achieving a lasting peace in Ukraine and the evolving strategic landscape in Europe.
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