Macron warns of the consequences of a "capitulation peace" in Ukraine

Friday 14 February 2025 - 11:37

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is the only one authorized to negotiate peace with Russia to end the war, warning that any peace agreement based on capitulation would be "bad news for everyone," including the US. Macron stated that the key issue is whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is genuinely committed to a sustainable and credible ceasefire. He reiterated that the responsibility for negotiations with Russia lies with Ukraine.

In a separate development, US President Donald Trump spoke with both Putin and Zelensky about the ongoing conflict, instructing US officials to initiate discussions on ending the war. These talks occurred shortly after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth mentioned that a return to Ukraine's pre-2014 borders, before Russia's annexation of Crimea, was unrealistic, and that NATO membership for Ukraine was not seen as a feasible solution.

Ukrainians expressed concern over Trump’s recent discussions with Putin, fearing that the US might abandon their country. However, Trump reassured the public that Ukraine would be included in peace talks with Russia.

Macron acknowledged that Trump's involvement had created an opportunity for a negotiated resolution, where each party must play its role. The French president stressed that Zelensky would need to address territorial and sovereignty issues, while the international community, particularly Europe, should work on security guarantees and the broader security framework for the region.

Macron also referred to Trump’s return as an “electroshock,” urging Europe to secure both its future and Ukraine’s in the face of the ongoing conflict.