© EPA/KAY NIETFELD/ POOL Macron underscored that European support for Ukraine should be proactive, without provoking further conflict with Moscow.
The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, while speaking at the Munich Security Conference, stated that several leaders are urging Ukrainian President Zelensky to acquiesce to Russia’s demands. He labeled such talk “defeatist” and highlighted the erroneous nature of such an approach.
Macron emphasized the importance of intensifying pressure on the invader, as the Ukrainian civilian populace suffers due to concessions, while Russia targets vital infrastructure.
Furthermore, according to him, Russia presents a danger to Europe in the long run, even after a resolution is achieved.
“Even following the attainment of agreements, we will need to coexist with an aggressive Russia. We must establish rules for this coexistence to lessen the chance of renewed escalation,” he added, according to France24.
Macron cited his region as an illustration in reinforcing security and sustaining stability.
“Everyone should emulate our example, not criticize us,” he remarked, following US Vice President J.D. Vance’s criticism of European policies concerning immigration and freedom of expression in his speech at the annual meeting last year, which unsettled European allies.
Earlier reports indicated that the upcoming session of peace negotiations in Ukraine is scheduled for Geneva on February 17-18. US President Donald Trump encouraged President Zelensky to promptly finalize a peace accord, as he risks forfeiting this prospect.
Delve deeper into the peace talks in the article “Behind the Glass: Negotiations Without a Finale, Elections Without Peace?” by Inna Vedernikova.