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27 European Union member states, along with 51 other countries, including the UK, Israel, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, called on Russia to accept a "complete, immediate, and unconditional" ceasefire as part of the path to peace.
This came in a joint statement made by representatives of the 27 EU countries and the 51 other countries in New York City, USA, ahead of a UN Security Council session on Ukraine.
The statement expressed solidarity with Ukraine, warning of the escalating Russian attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure across the country, and expressing deep concern about this situation.
The statement also expressed particular concern about attacks in the Black Sea, noting that "Russia is trying to disrupt Ukrainian grain exports, thereby endangering global food security"
The statement emphasized support for efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in the Black Sea and the need to protect commercial vessels and vital infrastructure.
The statement noted that Ukraine has accepted a "complete, immediate, and unconditional" ceasefire since March 2025, adding: "We call on Russia to do the same as a necessary step towards diplomacy and meaningful negotiations leading to peace"
The statement called on Russia to ensure the return of Ukrainian civilians and prisoners to their homeland, to build trust between the parties.
The statement affirmed: "Ukraine wants peace. We want peace. Russia must end its aggression, accept a ceasefire, and participate effectively in negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in accordance with international law"
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