French President Emmanuel Macron has cautioned European allies against placing trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing him as “an ogre at our gates.” His warning comes amid discussions over a possible peace summit between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The remarks followed a meeting in Washington on Monday, where US President Donald Trump hosted Zelensky and European leaders to address Ukraine’s long-term security needs. Talks focused on how Western allies could guarantee protection for Kyiv amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Macron emphasised that any negotiations must be preceded by a ceasefire.
He argued that Putin has “rarely honoured his commitments,” destabilised Europe, and consistently sought to expand his influence by redrawing borders.
“A ceasefire is a necessary condition for negotiations,” Macron said, highlighting concerns that without halting the fighting, discussions would lack credibility.
Trump, however, offered a different perspective, stating a peace deal could still be pursued, even while hostilities continue. “A ceasefire is not necessary,” he told reporters, signalling a divergence from Europe’s approach.
Despite differences over the sequencing of peace efforts, Macron welcomed what he called the most important outcome of the talks: Washington’s backing for stronger security guarantees for Ukraine.
“We’ve worked very hard over the past few years to achieve peace that is robust and long-standing,” Macron said.
“This is why the idea of a trilateral meeting is very important. To achieve lasting peace for Ukraine and the continent, we need these guarantees.”
VOC News
Photo: X/@WhiteHouse
