Macron: peace in Ukraine must be 'robust and long-lasting'

The French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated the need for a sustainable peace agreement in Ukraine during remarks on the sidelines of the G20 Summit on Saturday, emphasizing that any resolution must protect Ukrainian sovereignty and European security.

“Ukraine, the U.S., and the Europeans want peace, but we want a robust and longstanding peace,” Macron said.

The French President acknowledged U.S. efforts to put forward a ceasefire proposal and a wider peace framework but stressed that European and Ukrainian participation is essential in shaping the final agreement.

“It’s normal to have both the Ukrainians and the Europeans at the table to finalise this plan,” he said, adding that discussions would continue “tomorrow and the days after to make a common plan.”

Macron accused Russia of preventing diplomatic progress and rejecting previous proposals for a ceasefire.

“Our unique problem is Russia — which started this war, refused ceasefire proposals in February, March, July, August, and didn’t provide any guidance,” he told reporters.

The French president also highlighted the human and infrastructural toll of the conflict, saying the priority must remain stopping Russian attacks and protecting civilians.

The comments come as U.S., Ukrainian and European officials work behind closed doors to respond to Washington’s latest 28-point peace framework for Ukraine. The United States presented the plan without full EU consultation, prompting urgent coordination among European leaders at the Johannesburg summit.

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