Ukraine: Emmanuel Macron Warns of Russian Threat Ahead of Washington Visit

On Thursday, February 20, Emmanuel Macron spoke about the war in Ukraine and European security during an exchange on his social media. Just days before his meeting with Donald Trump in Washington, the French president defended the need for greater European engagement against the Russian threat and emphasized the importance of sustained support for Ukraine.

A Concerning Situation and a Call for Greater European Effort

Emmanuel Macron stressed that Ukraine will not be able to reclaim all its occupied territories through military means and advocated for a peace negotiated by the Ukrainians that would ensure the country’s stability. He described the war as a disaster for Russia, highlighting war crimes in Bucha and a worrying military escalation, particularly with Moscow strengthening ties with Iran and North Korea.

In response to this threat, the French president called on Europeans to increase the war effort, particularly in cybersecurity and defense. He also proposed a massive common European funding plan to boost military capabilities, warning that relying on American industry would undermine Europe’s strategic autonomy.

Possible French Military Presence in Ukraine After a Peace Agreement

Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed that France does not plan to send combat troops to Ukraine at this stage. However, he did not rule out the deployment of forces within an international framework once a peace agreement has been negotiated and signed, to ensure the country’s security. Discussions have already taken place with the United Kingdom and other European partners on this matter.

A Crucial Meeting with Donald Trump

The French president confirmed that he will travel to Washington on Monday, at a critical moment when Russia and the United States have begun peace talks behind closed doors. He intends to remind his American counterpart that abandoning Ukraine would be a huge strategic mistake, as it would provide Russia with a stronger army and Western military equipment. “You cannot be weak against Putin,” he plans to tell Trump, stressing the importance of U.S.-European cooperation in this uncertain geopolitical landscape.

At the same time, Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s support for Volodymyr Zelensky, calling the Ukrainian president legitimate despite the absence of elections due to the war. He rejected Donald Trump’s accusations that Zelensky is a dictator and emphasized the need to restore democracy in Ukraine once lasting peace is established.

This trip to Washington could be decisive for the future of Western support for Ukraine and Europe’s stance against Russia.