French President Emmanuel Macron told U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday that Europe is ready to increase defence spending but stressed the need for strong U.S. involvement in securing a Ukraine peace deal.
French President Emmanuel Macron met U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday, marking the first visit by a European leader since Trump returned to office. Their discussions focused on Europe’s role in defence and the future of Ukraine amid fears that Trump’s foreign policy shifts are sidelining European leadership.
“As Europeans, we have committed to being stakeholders in these security guarantees,” Macron said at a joint press conference. “We are well aware that Europeans need to do more for security in Europe and to more fairly share the security burden that your country has been carrying for so many years.”
Macron’s visit coincided with the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, as Trump pushes for a swift resolution. Trump said he was optimistic that the conflict was nearing an end but insisted that “the cost and burden of securing the peace must be borne by the nations of Europe and not, alone, by the United States.”
Macron welcomed peace efforts but warned that any settlement “cannot mean the surrender of Ukraine.” He emphasised that Ukraine had fought not only for its sovereignty but also for Europe’s collective security.
“No one in this room wants to live in a world where it’s the law of the strongest and international borders can be violated from one day to the next,” Macron said.
The French president also underscored the necessity of Ukraine’s participation in negotiations, stating that “Kyiv must be involved” in any discussions to end the war.
The meeting highlighted ongoing transatlantic tensions over defence commitments and the future of U.S. engagement in European security.
Read next
15:39
Mount Etna
Mount Etna, one of the world's most active volcanoes, erupted once more early on Saturday, with ash and lava spewing from the southeastern crater. The eruption, which began late Friday night, continued through midday, local sources reported.
13:59
The Holy Fire
The Holy Fire ceremony stands as one of Christianity's most enduring and mysterious rituals, drawing thousands of pilgrims to Jerusalem each year.
13:45
China
In a groundbreaking event, China hosted the world’s first humanoid robot race, where robots and humans competed side by side. The competition saw Chinese-made Tien Kung Ultra emerge victorious in the half-marathon, completing the 21-kilometer course in an impressive 2 hours and 40 minutes.
10:35
Morning brief
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for April 19th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
10:32
White House
he Trump administration has replaced the Covid.gov website, once a central hub for COVID-19 resources, with a new platform focusing on the lab leak theory regarding the virus's origins.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment