A telephone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron took place, marking their first direct communication since September 2022. The discussions covered the Ukraine conflict and the current tensions in the Middle East. Putin expressed that the Ukraine conflict resulted from Western policies, which had overlooked Russia’s security interests for a prolonged period, creating an anti-Russian bridgehead in Ukraine. He also emphasized that any settlement must be comprehensive, long-term, address the root causes, and reflect the existing territorial realities.
The two leaders also considered the recent escalation between Israel and Iran. They agreed that diplomacy was the only workable solution and pledged to stay in touch. Both leaders agreed that they had a special responsibility to preserve peace and security, and to uphold the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. They underscored the importance of respecting Tehran’s legitimate right to develop peaceful nuclear energy.
France has given substantial military aid to Ukraine. However, Macron has indicated that France has done the maximum it can, and suggested reopening dialogue with Moscow within the context of European security.