Zelensky and Macron Discuss Ahead of Trump-Putin Call
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Synopsis
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron to align positions ahead of the anticipated Trump-Putin conversation. Macron emphasized the need for Russia to prove its commitment to peace while expressing support for Ukraine's security.
Key Takeaways
- Phone talks held between Zelensky and Macron.
- Coordination ahead of Trump-Putin conversation.
- Macron stressed Russia's responsibility for peace.
- Trump plans to address the war in Ukraine with Putin.
- Hope for a ceasefire proposal from Moscow.
Kyiv, March 18 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that he had a phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron prior to an imminent dialogue between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"We aligned our positions ahead of the discussion between President Trump and Putin as well as the forthcoming meetings in Europe," Zelensky stated in his evening speech.
Zelensky conveyed his appreciation to Macron and France for their unwavering support towards Ukraine, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
In a separate post on social media platform X, Macron indicated that during their conversation, Zelensky reiterated his willingness to approve the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire.
"It is now Russia's turn to demonstrate its genuine desire for peace," Macron remarked.
He further mentioned that France, alongside its partners, should strive to formulate a "concrete plan" to ensure robust security assurances for Ukraine and facilitate enduring peace in Europe.
Earlier that day, US media outlets reported that Trump expressed intentions to engage with Putin on Tuesday regarding the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
On Monday, Russia confirmed that a phone discussion between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is scheduled for Tuesday.
"Yes, this is indeed the case. Such a conversation is being prepared for Tuesday," quoted Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov according to state-run news agency TASS.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump disclosed his plans for a conversation with the Russian President on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of addressing territorial and infrastructure matters within the scope of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Trump expressed his intent to discuss the war in Ukraine with Putin and noted prior discussions about "dividing up certain assets."
The US President also voiced hope that Moscow would consent to the ceasefire proposal.
"We want to see if we can bring that war to an end. Maybe we can, maybe we can't, but I believe we have a very good chance of speaking with President Putin on Tuesday. A considerable amount of work has been accomplished over the weekend," the US President informed reporters on Sunday.
