French President Emmanuel Macron made noteworthy comments directed at US President Donald Trump. Macron emphasized, “You can’t be weak against Putin. This isn’t you, this isn’t in your nature, this isn’t in your best interest.” Macron also stated, “No one has the right to say that Ukraine does not have the right to join the EU or NATO.”

During a live broadcast on social media, French President Emmanuel Macron answered questions regarding Ukraine. Macron claimed that Russia has already “globalized” the war in Ukraine by manipulating elections in Europe, deploying North Korean soldiers, carrying out cyberattacks, and cooperating with Iran. He reiterated the importance of the peace process in Ukraine for Europe while stating, “We want peace, but we do not want a ceasefire that means Ukraine’s surrender.”

“YOU CAN’T BE WEAK AGAINST PUTIN” Macron called for tougher negotiations in the Ukraine talks between Russia and the US to prevent European states from being left out. He said to US President Donald Trump, “I’m going to tell you: You can’t be weak against Putin. This isn’t you, this isn’t in your nature, this isn’t in your best interest. If you are weak against Putin, how can you be credible against China?”

Additionally, Macron highlighted the importance of peace conditions in Ukraine for European security and the need for deterrent security measures to prevent Russia from attacking another European country. He also touched upon Ukraine’s potential membership in the European Union (EU) and NATO, stating, “In the current situation, no one has the right to say that Ukraine does not have the right to join the EU or NATO.”

WHAT HAPPENED? Macron’s statements came at a time when the US administration argues against Ukraine joining NATO, diplomatic contacts intensify for peace negotiations in Ukraine, and discussions about security guarantees in case of a ceasefire for Ukraine are on the agenda for European states.