French President Emmanuel Macron stated that security guarantees for Ukraine are ready and emphasized the importance of strengthening the country’s defense, while noting that France and its allies are prepared to further coordinate sanctions against Russia in cooperation with the United States.

During a press conference with Volodymyr Zelensky after today’s meeting on Ukraine in Paris, Macron stressed that Russia appears to be “acting with the consent of many of its partners around the world,” as it seeks to delay the peace process and continue attacking Ukraine.

At the same time, he highlighted that 26 countries are ready to be involved “on land, at sea, or in the air” in order to “protect the citizens of Ukraine and maintain the ceasefire once it is implemented,” while also ensuring peace.

He went on to underline the need for security guarantees for Ukraine and referred to the process led by defense chiefs and strategic planners, who have laid the foundations for these guarantees. As he clarified, the guarantees are now ready, with military and political involvement from 35 members, in order to provide Ukraine with the support it needs.

“The main argument here is that there are no limits on Ukraine’s defense,” he said, stressing the need for the “rebirth” of the Ukrainian army so that it can “resist” Russian attacks and prevent new offensives from Moscow.

Speaking about the 26 countries he referred to, Macron confirmed that the leaders had talks with US President Trump, noting that “the conclusions are very simple,” with the plan to be finalized in the coming days along with American support. He also stressed that “we are ready to coordinate our efforts to stop Russia’s war operations.”

Macron underlined that Europeans want a series of meetings – initially between Zelensky and Putin, and later in a broader framework – to bring the war to an end, and if Moscow does not accept these terms, they will be forced to take further measures with the US.

Referring to Trump, he said that the American president confirmed his intention to join the alliance in taking measures, should Russia fail to comply. “We cannot allow the violation of international law. We cannot, because this is not just about Ukraine, but about everyone’s security.” He concluded by saying: “The sanctions we are preparing to impose are not only aimed directly at Russia but also at those supporting it, including China.”

Zelensky: “End this war as soon as possible”

For his part, Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine’s intention is clear: “To end this war as soon as possible” and to allow diplomatic talks, while also ensuring long-term security guarantees for the country. He added that the Russian president has so far rejected all calls for peace negotiations, stressing that “the pressure on him does not seem to be working,” although he believes sanctions have had a significant impact on the Russian economy.

Zelensky emphasized that a strong Ukrainian army is the “central element of the security guarantees,” while referring to talks regarding training, production, and supply of weapons to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities.

He explained that the plan for security guarantees, whose framework was agreed today, includes “concrete steps,” while the leaders are now deciding which country will assist in which area, such as cyber defense and air defense.

Regarding the Russian president’s proposal for a meeting in Moscow, he stressed: “Putin’s proposals for a meeting in Moscow are simply his way of avoiding real talks, and the US knows this.”

Speaking about arms production in Europe, he pointed out that “weapons production lines in Europe are not functioning adequately,” calling for more investment so that they can operate at full capacity.

He also underlined that the key to ending the war is to deprive the “Russian war machine” of resources, noting the need for greater pressure – including economic sanctions – on Moscow.

“The president, Trump, is very annoyed with European countries (Hungary and Slovakia) that continue to buy oil from Russia and asked us to put an end to this,” he added.