French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that peace for Ukraine should not mean giving up. He talked with US President Donald Trump at the White House to find ways to move forward in helping Ukraine on the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
Both leaders agreed that they could consider sending peacekeepers to Ukraine, but Trump insisted that Europe should take more responsibility. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was meeting with European leaders in Kyiv, asking for peace this year, as the United Nations supported Ukraine’s right to its land.
However, the United States presented a statement at the UN that didn’t criticize Russia and instead sided with Moscow and North Korea, raising worries that Trump may be adopting Russia’s views. Macron told reporters, “This peace cannot mean the surrender of Ukraine. We want a quick deal but not a weak one.” He emphasized that it’s essential for the US to support any peacekeeping efforts in Europe.
After having a phone call with Trump, Macron felt optimistic about finding a way to peace. Trump has recently shown interest in talking to Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war without involving Kyiv. He believed they could end the war “within weeks” if they made smart decisions.
Trump mentioned that Putin seemed open to having European troops as peacekeepers in Ukraine. This new approach has alarmed many, making them worry about the future support for Ukraine and Europe as a whole.
Meanwhile, Putin indicated that businesses from the US and Russia are planning to work together on projects in occupied Ukraine. He also criticized Zelensky, calling him a “toxic figure” in Ukraine. Trump echoed this sentiment, describing Zelensky in unflattering terms.
Trump and Putin might even meet soon in Saudi Arabia. Zelensky, who said he would resign for peace and a promise for Ukraine to join NATO, has called for genuine peace this year.
The war, which began in February 2022, has become Europe’s biggest conflict since World War II, causing many deaths and suffering. However, Trump blamed Ukraine for sparking the war and stated he wants to change how the US handles foreign policy, which he deemed “foolish.” With Europe worried about Trump’s actions, Macron is trying to work out a united response.
Overall, Macron is representing the European Union during his trip to the US, having met various leaders, including Hungary’s Prime Minister, who is friendly with Russia.
Leave a Reply