‘You Can’t Be Weak In The Face Of Putin’: French President's Message to Trump

Paris: Days before his visit to US, French President Emmanuel Macron said that he is going to tell President Donald Trump it's crucial for both Americans and Europeans not to “be weak” in the face of Russian President Vladimir Putin, as US-led talks aim to end the nearly three-year war in Ukraine.

During a one-hour Q&A on his social media Thursday, Macron stated he would tell Trump, “You can’t be weak in the face of President Putin. It’s not you, it’s not your trademark, it’s not in your interest. How can you then be credible in the face of China if you’re weak in the face of Putin?”

Macron is set to travel to Washington to meet with US President Donald Trump on Monday, the White House said.

Macron Suggests Trump's ‘Uncertain’ Approach Could Strengthen Western Allies

Trump's recent comments aligning with Putin's narrative and his plans for direct negotiations with Moscow have raised concerns among European allies and Ukrainian officials. However, Macron proposed that Trump's strategy of creating "uncertainty" in Russia talks could ultimately empower Western allies in these negotiations.

Also Read: Macron Calls for ‘Lasting Peace’ in Ukraine After Trump Call

Macron hinting at Putin, said, “doesn’t know what he (Trump) is going to do, he thinks (Trump) is capable of anything,” Macron said. 

“This uncertainty is good for us and for Ukraine.” he added.

US interests and Europeans’ Interests are same, Says Macron

Macron said he would seek to persuade Trump that US interests and Europeans’ interests are the same, telling him: “If you let Russia take over Ukraine, it would be unstoppable.”

Macron reiterated that any peace deal must involve negotiations with Ukrainians and Europeans at the table.

He said, “We want peace, but not a ceasefire that results in Ukraine surrendering, as that’s dangerous. We know it would lead to Russia advancing further, as we've already seen.”

Macron also seemed open to responding to Trump’s call for increased defense spending, stating that Europeans must boost their war efforts.

(with AP inputs)