Macron: New talks to test Russia’s willingness for peace will start

French President Emmanuel Macron declared on Monday that new diplomatic discussions are set to commence to assess Russia's actual willingness to pursue peace in Ukraine. Speaking at a joint press conference in Paris with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Macron stated the next phase will focus on compelling Moscow to provide "full clarity" to American mediators regarding its intentions. He vowed that Western allies would remain united behind Ukraine and the principles of international law, even as these talks proceed.

Diplomatic Sequencing and Criticism of Moscow

Macron outlined the diplomatic sequence, referencing decisions made the previous week. "Discussions will now be launched so that Russia can provide full clarity to the American mediators," he stated. This process follows US-Ukraine talks in Florida and precedes a scheduled meeting between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Macron sharply criticized ongoing Russian military strikes, including attacks on Dnipro earlier that day, labeling them "an insult to rights and an obstacle to peace."

Ukraine's Central Role and Forthcoming Sanctions

The French leader emphasized that Ukraine must be at the center of any peace settlement. "There is no finalized peace plan today," Macron stressed, noting that territorial questions "can only be finalized by President Zelensky." He added that issues like frozen Russian assets, security guarantees, and EU sanctions require European involvement. On sanctions, Macron announced a new comprehensive EU package targeting Russian oil revenues and the "ghost fleet" of tankers circumventing shipping restrictions, promising the "highest" pressure on Russia's energy sector since the war began.

Broader Security Talks and Regional Perspectives

Macron confirmed that further talks involving American and European partners will define the scope of long-term security guarantees for Ukraine. He commended the United States for its mediating role. This flurry of diplomatic activity underscores the complex interplay between battlefield dynamics and negotiation. The situation is closely monitored by regional powers like Türkiye, which has maintained its own dialogue with both Kyiv and Moscow and has previously offered to host peace talks, highlighting its strategic interest in Black Sea stability and conflict resolution.