EU, 51 countries urge Russia to accept ceasefire, enter peace talks

New York, United States – The European Union and 51 countries called on Russia to accept a ceasefire and engage in meaningful negotiations toward ending its war against Ukraine.

In a joint statement delivered ahead of a United Nations Security Council meeting on Wednesday, the countries also demanded the return of Ukrainian civilians, children and prisoners taken by Russia.

“Ukraine wants peace. We want peace,” the statement said.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha delivered the statement on behalf of its signatories.

The countries expressed solidarity with Ukraine and raised alarm over the growing civilian toll from Russian attacks.

“After four years, six months, and 30 days of full-scale war, the human cost continues to grow,” the statement said.

“We are deeply concerned by Russia’s escalation against civilians and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine, causing a record-high number of casualties in the last months, as recorded by the UN,” it added.

The countries called for adherence to international humanitarian law, protection of civilians and accountability for violations committed during the war.

They also raised concern over attacks in the Black Sea, accusing Russia of attempting to obstruct Ukrainian grain exports and threatening global food security.

The statement backed efforts to establish an arrangement in the Black Sea that would protect freedom of navigation, commercial shipping and critical infrastructure.

The countries urged Russia to take concrete steps toward diplomacy and negotiations.

They also called for the immediate, safe and unconditional return of Ukrainian civilians who have been detained, forcibly transferred or deported, including children.

The statement sought the complete return of prisoners of war and other internees, describing the actions as significant confidence-building measures.

“Russia must stop its aggression, accept a ceasefire, and engage meaningfully in negotiations towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in accordance with international law,” the statement said.

The signatories included all EU member states, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Georgia and Moldova.