President Emmanuel Macron stated in a televised speech to the people of France on Wednesday evening that Europe should be prepared to act alone in defending Ukraine, without relying on further support from the United States under the Trump administration. “While I hope the U.S. will stand with us, we must also be ready for the possibility that they may not,” Macron declared from the Élysée Palace in Paris. Stressing the need to recognize the Russian threat and fortify European defenses to deter potential attacks, he emphasized the importance of arming and equipping themselves adequately as a deterrent.
Macron emphasized that abandoning Ukraine in its struggle against Russia is not an option as he voiced concerns over Russia’s intentions beyond Ukraine’s borders, posing a threat to both France and Europe. He called for concrete actions, such as investing in defense and military capabilities, to ensure the security of European nations and Ukraine.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Macron emphasized the need for active engagement in the pursuit of peace and reiterated the necessity of supporting Ukraine until a stable and enduring peace agreement could be reached with Russia. He echoed sentiments shared by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer regarding the possibility of European troops being deployed in Ukraine if necessary to maintain peace post-agreement.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Macron’s unwavering support towards achieving peace and emphasized the importance of a genuine, fair, and long-lasting peace agreement that guarantees security for Ukraine, Europe, and the global community.
Macron and Starmer’s collaborative efforts to bridge the gap between the U.S. and Ukraine post the White House altercation with President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Zelenskyy have been challenging yet essential to maintaining international relations. Both leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine while navigating the complexities of diplomacy and security concerns.
In a time of global uncertainty and significant challenges, Macron stressed the need for unity and decisive action to address pressing issues. Meanwhile, Starmer’s ongoing dialogues with Trump aim to mend strained relations and pave the way for constructive diplomatic solutions.
Not only the United States, but also Europe, is years away from being able to defend itself against Russia without Washington’s assistance. The situation shifted on Tuesday when President Trump mentioned in his address to Congress that he had received an important letter from President Zelenskyy expressing his desire for peace and gratitude for U.S. support. Zelenskyy confirmed the contents of the letter in a social media post on Tuesday, referring to the clash with the White House as regrettable, and expressing readiness to negotiate a deal granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s mineral wealth.
However, there are still many unresolved issues. Ukraine is hesitant to agree to a ceasefire without security guarantees, which would involve protection from Europe and the U.S. against Russia potentially violating the truce, as it has in the past. Some supporters and analysts are concerned that a ceasefire could allow Russia to regroup, and could signal to President Putin that attacking a European nation is not only tolerated, but may lead to rewards.
While Zelenskyy previously insisted on these security guarantees, pressure from Moscow and Washington has led him to suggest on a later date that he may consider a minerals agreement as a preliminary step towards such assurances.
