Macron announced technical preparations for dialogue with Putin
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that preparations are underway for the resumption of dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin "at a technical level." At the same time, he condemned Moscow's actions for its lack of desire to conduct peace negotiations on Ukraine.
Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron in December 2019. Photo: Chesnot/Getty Images
Macron noted that the preparations are taking place "transparently and with consultations" with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but did not specify exact dates for the talks. He also condemned Russia's massive attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which, in his opinion, do not indicate a real readiness for peace.
Previously in Europe, most leaders avoided direct contact with Putin, but the recent rapprochement between US President Donald Trump and the Kremlin leader revived the discussion about the need for dialogue with Russia. Some European leaders, like Giorgia Meloni, called on Europe to also start negotiations, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz maintained a position against it due to Putin's "maximalist demands."
Emmanuel Macron and Vladimir Putin last spoke in July 2025, discussing the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East, and earlier, in September 2022, their contact concerned the Zaporizhzhia NPP.