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Europe Rejects U.S. Peace Framework Demanding Ukrainian Concessions

Ukraine suffered one of the worst Russian attacks in months when drones and missiles hit Ternopil.  European leaders have firmly rejected a U.S.-backed peace proposal that would require Ukraine to surrender territory and scale back its military capabilities. The plan, reportedly drafted by Washington and discussed with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has been described by European officials as tantamount to forcing Kyiv into capitulation. According to reports, the framework envisions Ukraine giving up land to Russia and partially disarming its armed forces. This approach has sparked alarm across Europe, where officials insist that any peace plan must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and involve both Kyiv and European partners in negotiations. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that “for any plan to work, it needs Ukrainians and Europeans on board,” underscoring the bloc’s position that decisions about Ukraine’s future cannot be made without its direct involvement. German...

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French Left Wants to Govern, but Centrists Assert Their Role

 

Following Sunday’s legislative election, France’s left-wing leaders find themselves in a precarious position. The New Popular Front (NFP), a coalition of left-leaning parties, secured the most seats in the National Assembly but fell short of an absolute majority by about 100 seats. President Emmanuel Macron’s centrists came second, and the far-right National Rally third.

The Dilemma

The unexpected election outcome has plunged France into uncertainty just before the Paris Olympics. With no clear path to a stable government, the NFP faces the challenge of governing without a majority. Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of the hard-left France Unbowed, insists that the NFP should fully implement its program, which includes raising the minimum wage, lowering the retirement age, and capping prices for essential goods. He rejects the idea of forming a coalition with parties outside the NFP, emphasizing the need to stay true to their principles.

Centrists’ Perspective

Centrists, however, argue that the NFP cannot govern effectively without support from their own parliamentary bloc. Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, leader of Macron’s Renaissance party, suggests that the NFP should break up, allowing its more moderate elements to form a broader coalition. Their red lines include support for the EU, fighting racism and antisemitism, transitioning to a green economy, and maintaining France’s appeal as an investment destination.

Uncertain Path Ahead

As NFP leaders meet behind closed doors to decide on a prime minister and governing strategy, France remains in political turmoil. The challenge lies in balancing the left’s ambitions with the centrists’ demands, all while navigating a fragmented parliament.


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