‘Macron Urges Trump to Stay Strong Against Putin’
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his intent to persuade former U.S. President Donald Trump of the necessity to maintain a strong stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin. This comes amid ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the nearly three-year-long conflict in Ukraine.
Macron is scheduled to visit Washington on Monday for discussions with Trump, as confirmed by the White House. During a recent live Q&A session on social media, Macron stated his planned message: “You cannot be weak in front of President Putin. It is neither your reputation nor in your strategic interest. How will you maintain credibility in dealing with China if you appear weak against Russia?”
Trump has made statements that echo Kremlin narratives and has suggested a willingness to engage in direct negotiations with Moscow. These remarks have raised concerns among European allies and Ukrainian officials. However, Macron suggested that Trump’s unpredictable approach could actually strengthen the West’s position in negotiations.
“Putin does not know what Trump might do; he perceives Trump as capable of any action,” Macron noted. “This element of uncertainty could serve as an advantage for the West and Ukraine.”
Macron intends to emphasize that the security interests of both the United States and Europe align in deterring Russian expansionism. “Allowing Russia to dominate Ukraine would have uncontrollable consequences,” he warned. “A sustainable peace settlement must involve Ukraine and European nations as key stakeholders.”
The French leader dismissed the idea of an immediate ceasefire that would result in Ukraine’s submission. “We want peace, but not one that equates to Ukrainian surrender,” he said. “History has shown us that unchecked Russian advances only lead to further aggression.”
Macron also hinted at an openness to increasing Europe’s defense expenditures, aligning with Trump’s calls for NATO members to contribute more to collective security. “Europeans must scale up their military efforts,” he stated.
When asked about the possibility of French troops being deployed to Ukraine, Macron clarified that he does not intend to send combat forces. Instead, he proposed that European forces could participate in a security framework to ensure Ukraine’s protection after a peace agreement is reached. “We do not exclude the potential deployment of forces to guarantee security post-settlement, in coordination with allies,” he explained.
This diplomatic exchange comes at a critical juncture as Western nations navigate the complexities of ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty while managing their relationships with Russia. As Macron prepares for his meeting with Trump, European leaders will be watching closely to see whether the former U.S. president reaffirms his commitment to transatlantic unity.
For further insights on European security policy, visit NATO’s official website and the European Union’s External Action Service.
