PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his intention to communicate to U.S. President Donald Trump the importance of maintaining strength in the presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin. This comes as U.S.-led efforts to resolve the ongoing three-year conflict in Ukraine continue.
Macron is scheduled to visit Washington for discussions with Trump on Monday, as confirmed by the White House.
During a one-hour Q&A session on social media on Thursday, Macron stated, “‘You cannot show weakness in the face of President Putin. That’s not your style, it’s not beneficial for you. How can you be credible towards China if you falter against Putin?’”
Trump’s recent comments that mirror Putin’s perspective and his intentions to pursue direct talks with Moscow have raised concerns among European allies and Ukrainian officials. However, Macron suggested that Trump’s approach of instilling “uncertainty” in negotiations with Russia could potentially strengthen Western allies in those discussions.
AP correspondent Laurence Brooks reports that Emmanuel Macron emphasizes the necessity for world leaders to confront Vladimir Putin ahead of his upcoming visit to Washington.
Macron remarked that Putin “does not know what to expect from (Trump); he believes (Trump) can do anything.” According to Macron, “This ambiguity benefits us and Ukraine.”
He stated his aim to convince Trump that the interests of the U.S. align with those of Europe, telling him: “If you allow Russia to take over Ukraine, it will be a precedent.”
According to Macron, any peace agreement must involve negotiations with both Ukrainians and Europeans present.
“We desire peace. However, we do not want a ceasefire that results in Ukraine capitulating, as that poses a danger. We know from experience that this would lead to further Russian advances,” he explained.
Macron also showed openness to Trump’s proposal to enhance defense spending. “We, as Europeans, need to amplify our military efforts,” he stated.
When asked about the possibility of sending French forces to Ukraine, he clarified that while he would refrain from sending combat troops, he would consider deploying them as part of a security force designed to provide “guarantees” once a peace agreement is reached.
“We do not rule out the potential to have forces, structured alongside our allies, which could help ensure Ukraine’s safety once peace has been established,” he added.
