With nearly two years of conflict underway, diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting peace in Ukraine are gaining renewed traction. French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday signaled a potential shift in negotiations, stating ther is now “a chance to make real progress” as international mediators continue discussions based on a recently proposed U.S. plan [[1]]. The push for peace comes as both sides continue to engage in active fighting, and amidst ongoing debate over the terms of any potential ceasefire and long-term security arrangements [[2]].
Macron Says “Real Progress” Towards Peace in Ukraine is Now Possible
French President Emmanuel Macron stated Tuesday that there is “finally a chance to make real progress towards a good peace” between Ukraine and Russia, as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict gain momentum. The remarks come as international mediators seek a negotiated resolution following discussions centered around a recently proposed U.S. plan.
Macron emphasized that any lasting peace agreement must be underpinned by “a series of very robust security guarantees, and not guarantees that exist only on paper.” He indicated that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio would also participate in a meeting of the “coalition of volunteers” – primarily European nations – supporting Ukraine and working to provide those assurances.
“Ukraine has had its share of broken promises due to successive Russian aggressions, so solid guarantees are a necessity,” Macron insisted. This development underscores the critical need for credible security commitments to prevent future escalation.
Macron described the current moment as “clearly crucial,” adding, “Negotiations are gaining new momentum, and we must take advantage of this impetus.” He welcomed what he called “open and constructive” discussions held November 23 in Geneva between Ukrainian and U.S. officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to present the outcome of the Geneva discussions – based on the American plan – to fellow members of the coalition, which includes over 30 countries. He will also outline how member nations can provide the necessary “guarantees” of security, according to the French president.
Earlier Tuesday, Macron stated that “the first thing that will protect Ukraine is its own army.” This came as the latest U.S. proposal reportedly includes provisions for Kyiv to accept restrictions on its armed forces, as reported by RTL.
“The first guarantee for Ukrainians, and for us, is a robust army. So, what do we do? We are driving its training, its equipment, and its ability to deploy over the coming months and years,” Macron said. He added that a second layer of security would come from reassurance forces stationed “far from the front line,” consisting of troops from countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Turkey, who would conduct training and security operations once a peace agreement is signed.
