Macron Advocates for Ceasefire in Ukraine During First Conversation with Putin Since 2022
On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible” during their first known phone conversation in more than two and a half years, as reported by the Elysee Palace.
The Kremlin confirmed the exchange but noted that Putin attributed the ongoing conflict to Western interference and emphasized that any peace agreement should be “long-term.”
The conversation lasted over two hours, with both leaders committing to continue discussions regarding Ukraine and Iran in the future, according to the French presidency.
Macron reiterated France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also pressing for an immediate ceasefire and the commencement of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia aimed at achieving a durable resolution to the conflict, as stated by Elysee Palace.
A statement from the Kremlin highlighted that Putin “reminded [Macron] that the conflict in Ukraine is directly linked to Western policies.”
Putin further asserted that Western nations had “long ignored Russia’s security concerns” and had effectively created an anti-Russian bastion in Ukraine.
**’Coordinate Efforts’ on Iran**
Concerning Iran, “the two presidents agreed to synchronize their efforts and schedule future discussions to collaboratively tackle this issue,” added the French statement.
These talks followed a ceasefire last week that ended a 12-day confrontation between Iran and Israel. Macron has previously urged Iran to alleviate tensions by pursuing a policy of “zero enrichment” of uranium within its nuclear program.
Macron emphasized the urgent need for Iran to meet its commitments under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, particularly by fully cooperating with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) so inspectors could resume their duties promptly.
He reaffirmed his dedication to seeking a diplomatic solution capable of yielding a lasting settlement related to nuclear issues, missile concerns, and Iran’s role in regional affairs.
In early 2022, Macron made several phone calls trying to persuade Putin against invading Ukraine and visited Moscow earlier that year. He maintained communication with Putin until dialogue ceased; their last interaction took place in September 2022.
Over the past year, Macron has taken a more assertive stance towards Russia, claiming its expansionist actions threaten all of Europe. The French president has also indicated he would not rule out deploying troops on Ukrainian territory if deemed necessary.
In April 2024, then-Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu engaged in discussions with Sebastien Lecornu, France’s defense minister and a close associate of Macron, focusing on security issues ahead of the Olympic Games set for Paris.
