PARIS – French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed European leaders alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday for high-stakes discussions aimed at securing a European security framework for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia.
The meeting, held in Paris, comes as tensions escalate over stalled truce negotiations and continued military hostilities. Macron, addressing the press alongside Zelensky, declared the talks a “decisive phase to put an end to the war of aggression” by Russia.
The French leader also announced a new €2 billion ($2.2 billion) military aid package for Ukraine, pledging that France would expedite the delivery of existing weapons from its stockpiles.
Ceasefire Standoff
The summit comes amid renewed accusations from both Russia and Ukraine over failed attempts to establish a ceasefire. Macron emphasized Ukraine’s readiness for a “full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire” but accused Moscow of introducing “new conditions” that jeopardized progress.
“Ukraine has clearly expressed to the United States its agreement to a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire, even though it is the victim of the aggression,” Macron stated. “We expect the same commitment from Russia.”
However, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking during a visit to Jamaica, acknowledged the complexities of securing a ceasefire. “It’ll take some time, but at least we’re on that road and we’re talking about these things,” Rubio said.
The Kremlin previously ordered a temporary halt to attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, but Kyiv maintains that Russian strikes have continued despite the announcement.
Zelensky, who has repeatedly called for sustained international pressure on Moscow, said he anticipated “strong decisions” from the summit. “Now is definitely not the time to reduce pressure on Russia or weaken our unity for the sake of peace,” he asserted.
Europe’s Role in a Post-War Ukraine
A key topic under discussion is the potential deployment of European forces to Ukraine as a security buffer against future Russian aggression.
While Zelensky refrained from detailing the specific role of such forces, his aide, Igor Zhovkva, underscored Ukraine’s demand for a “robust European presence” beyond traditional peacekeeping efforts.
Macron clarified that any European force sent to Ukraine post-ceasefire would not be engaged in combat but would act as a deterrent.
“It is a pacifist approach,” he stressed, noting that such a force would serve as a “card in the hands” of Ukraine to dissuade Russia from launching another invasion.
European leaders remain divided over how such a force would operate and who would contribute troops. While some nations favor a more active role in ensuring peace, others are wary of direct military involvement in a volatile conflict.
Challenges to Unity
Zelensky cautioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s primary goal is to “divide and weaken” European solidarity. He pointed to Hungary as an example, accusing its leadership of undermining EU efforts by repeatedly blocking sanctions against Moscow.
Despite ongoing diplomatic hurdles, the Paris summit marks a significant step in shaping Europe’s long-term role in Ukraine’s security.
With discussions on ceasefire terms still unresolved, the coming weeks will prove crucial in determining whether the continent can maintain a united front in support of Kyiv.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
