Macron: Resumption of dialogue with Putin under preparation

French President Emmanuel Macron announced today that preparations are underway to resume dialogue with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, while emphasizing that Moscow is not showing a "real intention" to negotiate peace with Ukraine.

Macron was asked about this during a visit to the Hot Son region in the northeast of the country, and he replied, "This is under preparation, and there are therefore discussions at the technical level."

He explained that this is being done within a framework of "transparency and consultation" with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Macron said, "It is important for Europeans to restore their channels of discussion" with Moscow.

But he did not mention any specific date, arguing that Russia’s recent “unacceptable” attacks do not demonstrate “a genuine intention to negotiate for peace.”

Last December, Macron suggested that “it would be useful to speak with Vladimir Putin” again, a statement that was met with a positive response from the Kremlin.

The last contact between the two presidents was in early July, and focused primarily on diplomatic efforts to contain Iran’s nuclear program. They also expressed differing views on the Ukrainian crisis.

ANHA