Macron and Zelensky in Paris: Discussing the peace plan and security guarantees
In a high-level diplomatic move reflecting the accelerating international efforts to end the conflict in Eastern Europe, French President Emmanuel Macron Volodymyr Zelensky, at the Élysée Palace next Monday . This meeting comes at a pivotal moment, where military and diplomatic efforts are intertwined, as both sides seek to forge a shared vision that guarantees the stability of the European continent.
The dimensions of the visit and its strategic timing
This visit is particularly significant as it coincides with the departure of a delegation of Ukrainian negotiators to the United States on a mission to discuss the details of the proposed American plan to end the ongoing war with Russia . Analysts suggest that Franco-Ukrainian coordination is crucial for unifying the European position on any future settlement, especially given concerns that any hasty negotiations could lead to unsustainable solutions.
The French presidency explained in its statement that the talks will focus primarily on "the conditions for a just and lasting peace," a term insisted upon by Kyiv and its allies to ensure that aggression is not repeated, in the context of the continuation of the Geneva talks and close consultation with European partners to ensure unity.
The file of security guarantees and the coalition of the willing
The issue of "security guarantees" stands out as one of the most complex files on the table for discussion at the Élysée Palace. The summit will address the progress made within the framework of the "Coalition of the Willing," the mechanism through which Ukraine seeks long-term defense commitments from its Western allies as a temporary or preliminary step towards NATO membership. France plays a pivotal role in formulating these guarantees, given its military and political weight within the European Union.
Developments on the ground and within Ukraine
On the ground, security challenges continue to cast a shadow over the situation. The capital, Kyiv, was subjected to another attack by Russian drones on Friday night, underscoring the ongoing Russian military pressure alongside diplomatic efforts. Domestically, Ukraine is witnessing significant political changes. The visit comes just hours after President Zelenskyy dismissed his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, amid anti-corruption investigations. This move reflects the Ukrainian leadership's desire to reassure its Western allies of its commitment to transparency and good governance, essential conditions for continued financial and military support, as well as for its path to EU membership.
In conclusion, Monday’s meeting represents a pivotal moment that may shape the next phase of the conflict, as Paris and Kyiv attempt to balance the military necessities on the ground with the growing international pressure to move towards a political settlement that ends the war that has drained resources and threatened global security.
