Ukrainian lawmaker: Russia unlikely to stop war, Europe may make a difference

On Radio NV, MP Kostenko suggested a ceasefire or temporary reduction in hostilities could occur, but he doesn't foresee Russia's war against Ukraine ending in 2025.

"As of now, everything could change," Kostenko said. "Maybe something major will happen when Europe unites and offers guarantees, including nuclear ones, that could force Russia to withdraw. But those conditions aren't on the table yet, so that's how I see it."

Earlier, the head of Ukraine’s Military Intelligence Directorate, Kirill Budanov, stated a quick ceasefire might be possible but lasting peace is unlikely.

On Feb. 27, Bloomberg reported that the European Union plans to allocate hundreds of billions of euros in additional defense funding as part of the largest security initiative in Europe since the Cold War.

According to Bloomberg, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s defense plan includes three major elements, though the specifics are still uncertain.

The first initiative would allow EU member states to boost defense spending by relaxing fiscal rules, potentially mobilizing at least 160 billion euros.

The second initiative would involve joint EU-level spending on projects like air defense, long-range strikes, missiles, drones, and military AI.

The third initiative aims to relax investment restrictions for the European Investment Bank, opening the door for more private financing.

On Feb. 18, von der Leyen met with Keith Kellogg, the U.S. President’s Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia. She outlined Europe’s plan to ramp up defense production and military aid to Ukraine, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to providing its share of military assistance and readiness to do more.