Zelenskyy: Ceasefire plan to be drawn up within a week

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said a ceasefire plan could be prepared within the next week, but expressed scepticism that Russian President Vladimir Putin would accept it.

Speaking to Axios, Zelenskyy noted that the plan, being developed by the so-called “Coalition of the Resolute,” would be concise and focused, rather than overly detailed.

"Some quick points. Like a plan for a ceasefire. We decided we will work on it in the next week or ten days."

Last week, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged to step up measures against Russia, saying the UK-led coalition will act to remove Russian oil and gas from global markets in an effort to cut funding for Moscow’s war in Ukraine.

Speaking on the need for urgent action, Starmer said the coalition is also focused on releasing funds from Russia’s frozen assets and accelerating plans for reparations.

The Labour leader confirmed the UK is strengthening Ukraine’s air defences, supplying additional missiles to help the country withstand winter attacks.

Starmer said military pressure on President Vladimir Putin would continue while preparations for multinational security arrangements are underway for a future peace.

“Ukraine’s future is our future,” he said. “We are determined to act now to increase pressure on Putin and bring him to the negotiating table in good faith.”

By Aghakazim Guliyev