French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emerged from lengthy discussions in Paris with clear messages about the next phase of diplomatic efforts to end the war. Macron confirmed that the work on a security guarantee framework for Ukraine is finished, adding that talks with Washington would soon clarify the US role. Zelensky, meanwhile, emphasized that territorial questions remain the most challenging part of any peace agreement. The meeting comes amid intensified diplomatic activity across Europe and the United States.
Security Guarantees Finalized in Paris
Macron said during the joint press conference at the Élysée Palace that the framework for long-term security guarantees for Ukraine has been completed. He noted that further discussions with the United States and European partners will determine how Washington participates in the plan, stressing that any final peace arrangement must include Europe at the table.
Zelensky: “Territory Is Still the Hardest Issue”
Zelensky described the revised peace proposal as an improvement over earlier drafts, but underlined that territorial matters remain the most difficult point to resolve. He said the US negotiating team had shared its views with Kyiv and would relay those perspectives to the Russian side.
Follow-Up Talks After Florida Meeting
Macron and Zelensky also held a joint call with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and Ukraine’s National Security Secretary Rustem Umerov to evaluate the outcome of recent Ukraine–US discussions in Florida. Zelensky said the parties agreed to continue the talks in person.
Broad European Coordination
The two leaders spoke by phone with heads of government from Germany, Poland, Italy, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark and Norway, as well as senior representatives from NATO and the European Union. Macron condemned Russia’s ongoing attacks, saying, “While we talk about peace, Russia continues to kill and destroy.”
EU Moves Toward Using Frozen Russian Assets
Macron reaffirmed that the European Union intends to find a legal pathway to use frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s benefit. He expects the European Commission to outline decisions before the next EU summit.
Zelensky’s 10th Visit to France Since the War Began
The Paris meeting marked Zelensky’s tenth trip to France since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. The two leaders last met on November 17, when they signed a major defense agreement that included the purchase of 100 Rafale fighter jets for Ukraine’s Air Force.
