French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that Europe is interested in establishing dialogue with Russia on areas of common interest, including security and neighborhood policy. Macron also expressed confidence that Russia and Ukraine could develop common approaches to a ceasefire and a future peace plan.
Speaking during the EU–Western Balkans Summit held in Montenegro, Macron addressed European-Russian relations and the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
The French president said that Europe remains open to creating mechanisms for dialogue with Russia on matters that concern shared interests.
“Europe’s Security and Neighborhood Policy Are Our Common Interests”
Speaking to the press ahead of the summit, Macron outlined the scope of potential discussions with Russia, stating:
“We are interested in structuring discussions around issues that concern our common interests with Russia. These issues include our own security policy, our neighborhood policy, and, of course, the protection of Ukraine’s interests.”
“Europe Must Have a Seat at the Negotiating Table”
Macron recalled that France has consistently supported direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. He said he believes that both countries can develop common approaches not only to a ceasefire but also to a future peace framework.
Emphasizing that Europe cannot remain on the sidelines given the geographical realities of the conflict, Macron stated:
“At some point, Europe must be present at the negotiating table, because this concerns the peace and security architecture of Europeans.”
Moscow Previously Signaled Openness to Dialogue
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin recently stated during a meeting that Russia has never refused dialogue with European countries and has never imposed any conditions regarding who should represent the negotiating parties.
Putin emphasized that Moscow remains open to discussions and has consistently supported diplomatic engagement with European states.