Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy set out his country’s red lines during a press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.
The discussions came amid ongoing attempts to push forward peace negotiations and security guarantees in 2025. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine’s priorities remain centered on security guarantees, maintaining sovereignty, and ensuring that Russia does not benefit from its aggression.
“Russia must not get rewards for its aggression on Ukraine,” Zelenskyy asserted, highlighting that any peace settlement must respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
Responding to questions about recent talks with Russia, Zelenskyy said he would receive a full debrief on developments, which will inform his next steps. The Ukrainian president also revealed that he continues to search for a replacement for his former senior aide Andriy Yermak as head of his office. “There are capable candidates,” he added, demonstrating that administrative adjustments remain a priority amid the ongoing crisis.
Macron Highlights European Pressure on Russia
President Macron welcomed Europe’s efforts to increase pressure on Moscow, particularly through sanctions targeting the oil and gas sectors and the shadow fleet. He described these measures as potentially transformative.
“I really believe that in the weeks to come, the pressure on the Russian economy and the capacity of Russia to finance the war efforts will drastically change,” Macron said. He added that the European strategy is the most significant pressure applied to Russia since the beginning of the war.
Macron also discussed the contentious issue of using frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine and Belgium’s opposition to the proposed EU reparations loan. “I am confident we will find an option that technically addresses all the legitimate questions being raised,” he stated.
Regarding corruption investigations in Ukraine, including those involving Zelenskyy’s former senior aide, Macron affirmed that the EU monitors these issues closely. He stressed that the key consideration is how the Ukrainian authorities respond through independent institutions and the judiciary. “It’s right to demand accountability and scrutiny from Ukraine,” he said, contrasting the Ukrainian approach with the way Russia handles similar allegations.
Zelenskyy Downplays Kremlin Claims
In his press conference, Zelenskyy also addressed Russian claims of military advances, insisting that these reports are exaggerated. He underscored that Ukraine’s decisions on its territory and security cannot be made without its input.
“Only Ukraine can make decisions about its territory, and security guarantees must not be discussed without both Ukrainians and the Europeans,” Zelenskyy said. He emphasized the importance of the Coalition of the Willing, stating they are the guarantors of European security and will be directly affected by any shifts in the region.
The Ukrainian president hinted at potential talks with former US President Donald Trump to discuss next steps once Steve Witkoff completes his discussions in Russia. Zelenskyy’s comments underscore the international dimension of Ukraine’s negotiations and the ongoing efforts to secure broader support.
Peace Talks and Security Guarantees
Macron indicated that the coming days would see essential discussions between the US and the Coalition of the Willing to clarify American participation in any future security guarantees for Ukraine. He also addressed broader peace negotiations, noting that clarity would emerge once US and Russian representatives hold talks in the coming days.
“For our part, we will continue to support all peace efforts in the meantime, and we will continue to support Ukraine’s resistance efforts,” Macron said.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, both leaders stressed that Russia has not shown any sign of ending its aggression. “Russia must stop the aggression. It has given no signal, no proof to that effect,” Macron said, adding that the United States has played a critical role in supporting peace efforts.
The International Context
The press conference highlighted the global attention on Ukraine and the critical role of international coalitions in shaping outcomes. Macron lauded the US efforts to end the war, stressing that stopping the killing remains a key objective. He reminded that everyone has a role to play in the peace process.
Zelenskyy’s firm stance and Macron’s warnings signal that the coming weeks could be decisive. With heightened European sanctions, ongoing US diplomatic engagement, and continued attention to Ukraine’s internal governance and anti-corruption measures, the stage is set for a potentially significant turning point in the conflict.
As both leaders concluded the press conference, the message was clear: Ukraine will not compromise on its sovereignty or security, while Russia faces mounting pressure from the international community. The upcoming talks, whether with the US, European partners, or indirectly with Russia, will likely shape the next phase of the conflict.
“Russia must not get rewards for its aggression on Ukraine,” Zelenskyy reiterated, summarizing the firm stance that Ukraine is taking in the ongoing negotiations and in its defense strategy.
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