On the 1st, French President Macron met with visiting Ukrainian President Zelensky at the Élysée Palace, stating that a Russia-Ukraine “peace plan” can only be finalized when both Ukraine and Europe “sit down at the negotiating table.”
Macron and Zelensky attended a press conference together. Zelensky said that territory would be the “most difficult” topic in Russia-Ukraine peace talks. He stated that he is doing his utmost “to end this war in a dignified way,” and Ukraine’s primary goal is to defend its sovereignty and ensure “reliable” security guarantees.
Hopes to Meet Trump Again
Zelensky said he hopes to meet with U.S. President Trump after U.S. Middle East envoy Whitcoff visits Moscow later this week.
He mentioned that U.S. and Ukrainian delegations had previously held talks in Geneva, Switzerland, and in Florida, U.S., but believes “there is still no truly final peace plan.”
Macron: Only Ukraine is Qualified to Discuss Territorial Issues
Macron emphasized: “Without the participation of Ukrainians and Europeans, Ukraine’s security guarantees cannot be negotiated.” He welcomed U.S. mediation efforts but pointed out that only Ukraine is qualified to discuss territorial issues.
U.S. Middle East envoy Whitcoff is expected to meet with Russian President Putin in Moscow on the 2nd to discuss the Ukraine issue. This is part of a U.S.-led effort to seek an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, aiming to accelerate peace talks.
Ukraine’s negotiation representatives just finished two days of talks with the U.S. side in Florida, but both sides stated that some issues remain unresolved. U.S. Secretary of State Rubio said the meeting was “productive,” but Zelensky said “there are still thorny issues that need to be addressed.”