Meeting of Ukraine and France Leaders: New Paths to Cooperation
A significant meeting took place in Paris between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron, held both personally and with their delegations.
Before the negotiations began, the Ukrainian leader emphasized that France has always stood by Ukraine. Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to the French people and personally to Emmanuel Macron for their unwavering support of our country and France's leadership in various international initiatives.
«Today, we are at a pivotal moment when France, along with other nations, truly wishes to bring peace closer. Unfortunately, we do not yet see any signals from Russia indicating a desire to end the war. However, I am confident that our alliance – primarily Europe, which has stood with us since the beginning of the war – and the partnership with America will help increase pressure on Russia,» stated Volodymyr Zelensky.
The French President noted that this marks the eighth visit of the Ukrainian President to his country, assuring continued support.
During the meeting, they discussed preparatory work regarding security guarantees, which were initiated following talks between Volodymyr Zelensky and other European leaders with the President of the United States in Washington, conducted by the military commanders and defense ministers of the coalition nations.
«We, Europeans, are ready to provide Ukraine with security guarantees on the day peace is established. This was stated in Washington. We have been working intensively over the past weeks, and I can confidently say that Europe is ready,» emphasized Emmanuel Macron.
The leaders of Ukraine and France coordinated their positions ahead of the coalition meeting scheduled for tomorrow. Some partners will participate from Paris, while others will join online.
«I truly believe in the coalition led by you and Keir Starmer, the outcome of which – though I do not know the exact date – will certainly lead to security guarantees for Ukraine. This is crucial. A strong Ukrainian army, security guarantees for citizens, security guarantees for families. I don't just believe in this; we are all working on it,» added the Ukrainian President.
They also discussed defense support for Ukraine, including addressing current needs, strengthening sanctions against Russia, and exploring ways to utilize frozen Russian assets for the benefit of our state.
Special attention was given to the negotiation process regarding Ukraine's EU membership and the importance of a joint and simultaneous advancement of Ukraine and Moldova. Emmanuel Macron stressed that our country can count on France's support in this matter.
