Macron, Trump discuss Ukraine peace talks at White House
French President Emmanuel Macron met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and explore potential pathways to peace. During their joint press conference, President Trump expressed optimism, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin is inclined toward negotiating an end to the war. In contrast, President Macron emphasized the necessity for "verified" security guarantees to ensure a sustainable resolution.
President Trump urged European nations to take a leading position in both the negotiation process and the financial responsibilities associated with Ukraine's reconstruction. He stressed the importance of Europe assuming primary responsibility for regional security matters.
Trump said Russian President Vladimir Putin accepts the idea of Europe sending peacekeepers to Ukraine as part of a ceasefire agreement, and Macron said Europe is ready to help. Both leaders sketched out efforts to negotiate an end to the Ukraine war in Oval Office talks after they took part in a video conference with other G7 leaders to mark the third anniversary of the start of the Ukraine war.
President Macron, while acknowledging Europe's significant role, underscored that achieving peace should not equate to compromising Ukraine's sovereignty. He advocated for renewed negotiations with Russia, emphasizing the collective readiness of European leaders to engage in dialogue aimed at restoring stability in the region.
"We want peace. That peace cannot mean capitulation by Ukraine, that peace cannot be a ceasefire with no guarantees, that peace must include the conditions for Ukrainian sovereignty, allowing Ukraine to negotiate with all actors on the issues which concern it, and for which it is the only party which can legitimately negotiate," Macron added.
This meeting underscores the ongoing international efforts to address the complex dynamics of the Ukraine conflict, with a focus on collaborative strategies to achieve a lasting peace.
