Macron: The future of Ukraine must be decided with the participation of Ukrainians
French President Macron reiterated on Saturday (August 9) that "the future of Ukraine cannot be decided without the participation of Ukrainians." This came after Macron spoke by phone with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, exchanging views on the intensive diplomatic efforts among countries ahead of the U.S.-Russia summit.
Reuters reported that U.S. President Trump announced on Friday that he will meet Russian President Putin in Alaska on August 15, but this meeting will not include the Ukrainian president. Trump said that to end the Russia-Ukraine war, a "territorial exchange favorable to both sides" may take place. The war began in February 2022 with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Bloomberg reported earlier that U.S. and Russian officials are working to finalize an agreement recognizing Russia's control over Ukrainian territories occupied during the military operation.
Zelenskyy responded in a video speech on Saturday, stating, "Ukrainians will not hand over their territory to the occupiers," and emphasized that Ukraine's borders are defined by its constitution.
Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff met with Putin in Moscow on Wednesday — this meeting was called "constructive" by both Moscow and Washington — since then, Zelenskyy has repeatedly called for "maximum coordination" with allies.
On Saturday, Macron wrote on the social media platform X: "The future of Ukraine cannot be decided without the participation of Ukrainians — they have fought for freedom and security for more than three years." Macron said this statement was made after speaking with Zelenskyy, German Chancellor Merkel, and British Prime Minister Starmer.
Macron said: "We will continue to support Ukraine in a spirit of solidarity and cooperate within the framework of the 'Volunteer Alliance' to ensure Ukraine's security in any possible Russia-Ukraine peace agreement."
Macron emphasized, "European countries will inevitably participate in the solution, as it concerns European security." Macron said he will continue to maintain close coordination with Zelenskyy and European partners."
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1840024884280320/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.