Emmanuel Macron expressed a clear position regarding the possibility of initiating dialogue with Russia in the context of a genuine cessation of hostilities
According to him, any resumption of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia is only possible after both sides agree on conditions for an unconditional and full 30-day ceasefire, which is set to begin on May 12. The French president emphasized that this time is necessary to reduce tension at the front and to create real preconditions for diplomatic resolution of the conflict. In a post published on the social network X (formerly Twitter), Macron stressed that world leaders, including those in Kyiv and together with U.S. President Donald Trump, put forward a concrete proposal — an unconditional and comprehensive 30-day ceasefire starting from May 12. At the same time, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky took responsibility and promised not to make additional conditions, demonstrating his readiness for reconciliation. Macron noted that now it is Russia that must give a clear response, as without its support and agreement to such a ceasefire regime, any diplomatic efforts remain unsuccessful. "It is unjust and wrong to start any dialogue while the war is ongoing," emphasized the French president. "As long as Russian forces are targeting peaceful cities and settlements, talking about peace and compromises is impossible. We cannot allow weapons and sacrifices to undermine the diplomatic process. A ceasefire is now necessary — it is the only way to initiate negotiations, and we all must do everything possible to achieve this goal." The background of this discussion stems from statements made by Putin beforehand. On May 15, the Russian president announced his intention to hold "direct talks" with Kyiv in Istanbul; however, in his speech, he did not mention the initiative supported by the "Coalition of Decisive" — an agreement on an unconditional ceasefire for 30 days. Zelensky responded by saying that Russians might be contemplating war, but still hopes for a quick ceasefire — an important step towards peace that can help prevent further human losses and destruction. Meanwhile, the international community remains vigilant and calls for the maximum adherence to agreements on the ceasefire. It is important to highlight that restoring diplomatic contacts and achieving a possible diplomatic resolution to the conflict requires not only the declared intention. Russia must take decisive steps to cease hostilities and confirm its readiness for constructive dialogue. Without fulfilling these conditions, prospects for peaceful settlement remain distant. Overall, this situation once again underscores that any attempts to hold negotiations without a prior complete and unconditional ceasefire have little chance of success and can only prolong the conflict, which has already led to enormous human tragedies and destruction. The world awaits concrete steps and clear signals from both sides to once again frame the issue of peace and security in Ukraine on a fair and realistic basis.