French President Macron said in the early hours of the 18th that after an emergency meeting on the Ukrainian issue with several European leaders, he had successive phone calls with US President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky.
He wrote on social media: “After meetings with several European leaders, I just had phone conversations with President Trump and President Zelensky.”
Macron did not disclose the content of the calls but stated that they “seek to achieve strong and lasting peace in Ukraine.” To achieve this goal, Russia must end its military action, and “strong and credible security guarantees must be provided for Ukrainians.”
Macron said that Europe must make “better and more joint investments” in its security and defense.
He stated: “Europeans wish to accelerate the implementation of their sovereignty, security, and competitiveness agenda. In supporting Ukraine and strengthening and investing in our defense, we will continue to work according to the recommendations of the European Commission.”
He noted that discussions on this will continue with relevant parties in the coming days.