Macron Welcomes Zelensky’s Proposal For Face-To-Face Talks With Putin

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's proposal for direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing the move as a positive step toward reviving diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking at a summit of European Union and Balkan leaders in Tivat, Montenegro, Macron said the time had come for renewed dialogue between Kyiv and Moscow as international efforts to secure a ceasefire continue to face challenges.

Zelensky's proposal was conveyed through a rare open letter addressed to Putin on Thursday, in which the Ukrainian leader called for a face-to-face meeting with his Russian counterpart. The initiative has drawn support from several European leaders and institutions, including the European Union and Germany, which have welcomed the prospect of direct negotiations between the two sides. The proposal comes amid growing concern over the prolonged conflict and the lack of significant progress in recent peace efforts.

Addressing reporters on the sidelines of the summit, Macron described Zelensky's letter as a “good initiative” and emphasized the importance of creating conditions for both a ceasefire and a broader peace framework. He stated that responsibility now rests with Ukraine and Russia to pursue meaningful negotiations, while European nations can play a supportive role in facilitating dialogue and helping shape a sustainable peace process. According to Macron, evolving developments on the ground make renewed diplomatic engagement increasingly necessary.

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The French president also indicated a willingness to explore broader discussions with Moscow on issues affecting regional security and stability. He said Europe must consider how to rebuild channels of communication with Russia while ensuring that Ukraine's sovereignty and interests remain protected. Macron stressed that any future dialogue should address shared security concerns, the relationship between neighboring states and long-term arrangements capable of preventing further escalation in the region.

Debate across Europe has intensified in recent months over whether and how to re-engage with Russia diplomatically. While the United States has attempted to broker negotiations aimed at ending the conflict, those efforts have so far failed to produce a breakthrough. As a result, some European leaders have begun discussing alternative approaches that could help revive stalled peace talks while maintaining support for Ukraine's position in the conflict.

Macron also revealed that he expects to meet Zelensky in the coming days and confirmed plans to host countries participating in the so-called “coalition of the willing” in Paris on July 14, France's national holiday. The coalition has been exploring ways to support and enforce any future ceasefire arrangement. The planned gathering is expected to focus on security guarantees, diplomatic coordination and potential mechanisms for sustaining a negotiated settlement between Ukraine and Russia.

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