Macron Urges Putin to Meet Zelensky or Face Sanctions

French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin would effectively have “played” his U.S. counterpart, Donald Trump, if he does not agree to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky by the deadline of September 1, 2023. Macron’s remarks came during a press conference held in Toulon, France, following discussions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday, August 29. The French leader expressed hope that the long-awaited meeting would occur, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic engagement.

Macron stated that if the meeting does not take place, France and its allies would advocate for new “primary and secondary sanctions” aimed at increasing pressure on Moscow. “This cannot stay without response,” he asserted, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Both Macron and Merz indicated plans to engage with Trump over the weekend, signaling a coordinated effort among Western leaders.

Macron’s Strong Words on Putin

Macron reiterated his previous characterization of Putin as an “ogre at our gates,” a statement that has elicited strong reactions from the Kremlin. “We say there is an ogre at the gates of Europe,” he commented, referring to the sentiments of nations like Georgia and Ukraine that have experienced Russian aggression. He emphasized that Putin’s authoritarian tendencies are reshaping international boundaries and that the Russian leader often misrepresents his intentions during international discussions.

“The gap between President Putin’s positions at international summits and the reality on the ground shows how insincere he is,” Macron noted, referencing the recent deadly drone and missile attacks on Kyiv that underscored the ongoing violence in the region. His remarks underline the skepticism prevalent among Western leaders regarding Putin’s commitment to peace.

German Support and Outlook on the Conflict

Chancellor Merz shared Macron’s concerns, suggesting that the war in Ukraine could extend for “many more months.” He expressed a lack of optimism about a swift resolution to the conflict. “We will not abandon Ukraine,” he declared, reaffirming Germany’s support for the embattled nation. Merz acknowledged that Putin has shown “no readiness” to engage in dialogue with Zelensky, characterizing this reluctance as a core aspect of the Russian president’s strategy.

As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough in negotiations while remaining prepared for potential escalations in sanctions against Russia. The dynamics of this conflict continue to evolve, reflecting the complex interplay of global politics and regional security.