Ukraine is only country that can discuss territorial issues, as these are its lands - Macron
Photo: Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
Only Ukraine can discuss territorial issues during negotiations to end the war, as these are its territories, French President Emmanuel Macron stated this during a press conference with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
"Russia has given no signals or evidence that it will stop its aggression. Ukraine is the only country that can discuss territorial issues, as this is its territory, recognized by international law, and is sovereign," he emphasized.
Macron stressed that when it comes to security guarantees, they cannot be discussed or agreed upon without Ukraine’s participation, because it concerns its territory.
He added that Europeans and all allies of the Coalition of the Willing must also be present, as they are guarantors, and it also concerns the security of EU territory.
Macron’s meeting with Zelenskyy and the peace plan
Today, December 1, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is visiting Paris. At the Élysée Palace, he will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Notably, Barrot called the Ukrainian leader’s visit to Paris today "no coincidence." He also emphasized that peace negotiations in Ukraine cannot take place without European participation.
Macron’s office announced that the presidents will discuss the situation in Ukraine and the conditions for achieving a fair and lasting peace.
Just yesterday, November 30, the Ukrainian delegation held talks with the United States in Florida regarding further coordination of the peace plan developed in Geneva, aiming to bring it to a format that would pave the way for peace and security guarantees.
The Ukrainian president stated that there will be a lot of diplomatic work this week, including with European allies.
Additionally, the French Foreign Ministry stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin will need to agree to a ceasefire. Otherwise, Russia will face new sanctions.
RBC-Ukraine previously reported that the French Foreign Minister said the European Council could make a decision on Russia’s frozen assets as early as December 18. At the same time, he acknowledged that Europeans are divided on this issue.
