France and Germany will defend peace together with Ukrainians – Macron

This was announced by French President Emmanuel Macron at a meeting in Berlin with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, as reported by an Ukrinform correspondent.

“It is a historic task for Germany, France and the whole world to support the Ukrainians. The recent debate is going in the right direction. And in this context, thanks to our joint efforts with the UK and Germany, I believe that we have made a positive contribution to convincing President Zelensky,” Macron said.

Read also: Ukrainian and French presidents agree on positions ahead of EU meetings

The French president said the Ukrainian leader had made “a very correct decision in having the courage to accept Trump's peace initiative” by agreeing to a 30-day ceasefire.

Macron also stressed that these are only the first steps, but the goal must remain unchanged.

“In order to achieve a balanced and controlled ceasefire that will be fully respected, it is necessary to begin detailed and comprehensive peace negotiations that will lead to sustainable peace and appropriate guarantees,” he added, stressing that this is impossible without the participation of Ukrainians at the negotiating table.

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As reported by Ukrinform, Macron announced the strengthening of nuclear deterrence and plans to deploy Rafale combat aircraft.