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Macron Urges Ukraine for 'Realistic' Territorial Talks in Fourth Year of Conflict

Jan 6, 2025, 01:00 PM

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Ukraine to engage in 'realistic' discussions on territorial issues as the conflict with Russia enters its fourth year. Speaking at the Elysee Palace to French ambassadors, Macron emphasized that only Ukrainians can conduct these negotiations. He warned that there will be no 'quick and easy solution' to the conflict, rejecting the notion of a swift settlement despite recent comments from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Macron stressed the importance of U.S. assistance in pressuring Russia to return to negotiations and highlighted Europe's responsibility to provide Ukraine with security guarantees. He also cautioned that Western credibility would be undermined by any compromise due to 'fatigue' from the prolonged conflict.