Emmanuel Macron: the EU had the opportunity to monitor Ukraine-Russia negotiations in real time
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that European Union leaders had a unique opportunity to directly witness and participate in key stages of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in real time. According to him, open communication channels were established for European diplomats and member state representatives, allowing them to receive up-to-date information daily and respond promptly to events occurring on the ground. Macron stated that in the coming days, an initiative from the United States is expected. According to him, U.S. President Donald Trump, who is currently not holding any official position after completing his presidential term, may establish contact with the Russian authorities to discuss future steps aimed at at least partially ending hostilities and reducing tensions around Ukraine. A source from "European Truth," referencing the French leader’s words, reports that EU representatives remained in constant contact with the Ukrainian delegation during the negotiations in Turkey. They had the opportunity not only to observe but also to directly participate in discussions in real time, which enabled quick reactions to developments and the shaping of corresponding positions. Macron added that the United States is actively searching for ways to engage in dialogue with Russia in the coming days and hours to clearly understand what exactly caused Moscow to refuse to continue the negotiation process. “President Trump intends to hold negotiations with the Russian side in the near future to clarify the situation, determine possible further actions, and find ways to return to the negotiation table,” he stated. At the same time, the French leader was cautious about commenting on specific plans regarding Russia but emphasized that scenarios and repetitions of the 2022 situation, when Ukraine experienced a large-scale conflict, should not serve as future models. Macron underscored that an outright rejection of dialogue with Russia is unacceptable, but concessions undermining Ukraine’s interests are also unacceptable. “Obviously, Russia’s refusal to cease fire and to hold a high-level meeting is completely unacceptable and contradicts the values and aspirations of European countries. It causes deep concern and requires appropriate action from our side,” Macron conveyed his position. He added that all parties should work towards finding a peaceful solution that considers Ukraine’s interests and ensures long-term stability. Recall that on May 16 in Istanbul, for the first time in over three years, direct negotiations took place between Russia and Ukraine. According to sources, the Russian delegations insisted that U.S. representatives not be present at the talks with the Ukrainian side and proposed a number of conditions that were initially unacceptable to Ukraine. Following these consultations, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov noted that the meeting addressed issues of ceasefire, humanitarian situation, and the possibility of a leader-level meeting to find long-term solutions that would truly promote de-escalation and stabilize the situation.