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The United States and European Union are reportedly reconsidering their stance on the Ukraine conflict, with a shift towards a negotiated settlement becoming increasingly favoured, according to a report by the French newspaper ‘Le Figaro’. The shift comes as Western leaders weigh the long-term costs of continued military support for Kyiv against the potential for a diplomatic resolution with Moscow.
The ‘Le Figaro’ report suggests that Washington and Brussels are now more open to exploring a peaceful resolution to the conflict, which has continued for over a year and a half. With battlefield gains stalling and economic pressures mounting, especially in Europe, some Western officials believe that negotiations may offer a path forward.
Citing unnamed diplomatic sources, ‘Le Figaro’ claims that Western leaders are beginning to recognise the limitations of a purely military solution. Ukraine’s counteroffensive, which aimed to reclaim occupied territories, has faced significant challenges, and the likelihood of a swift victory appears increasingly distant. The paper reports that some EU member states, particularly France and Germany, have voiced concerns over the growing strain on their economies and energy supplies as the war drags on.
In the U.S., public opinion is also shifting. With the 2024 presidential election on the horizon, there is growing debate within political circles about the sustainability of continued financial and military aid to Ukraine. A key question facing Western leaders is whether ongoing support will yield a decisive outcome, or whether a negotiated settlement could achieve peace without further escalation.
While the prospect of a diplomatic resolution may appeal to some, there are clear risks involved. Ukraine has remained steadfast in its refusal to negotiate with Moscow unless it fully withdraws from Ukrainian territory, including Crimea. For Kyiv, any settlement that involves ceding territory would be seen as a betrayal of national sovereignty.