French President Emmanuel Macron has reaffirmed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky alone has the authority to negotiate a peace deal with Russia, warning that any agreement resembling capitulation would be detrimental not just to Ukraine, but also to the United States.

Speaking in an interview with the Financial Times on Thursday, Macron stated:

“The only question at this stage is whether President Putin is genuinely, sustainably, and credibly willing to agree to a ceasefire on this basis. After that, it’s up to the Ukrainians to negotiate with Russia.”

Macron’s comments come amid separate diplomatic moves by U.S. President Donald Trump, who spoke directly with both Putin and Zelensky on Wednesday and instructed U.S. officials to initiate peace talks aimed at ending the nearly three-year war.

The move has sparked concerns in Ukraine, with fears that Trump may broker a deal that compromises Ukrainian interests.

However, Trump later reassured reporters at the White House that Ukraine would have a seat at the table in any negotiations, reaffirming the country’s role in shaping its own future.

Despite Trump’s reassurances, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had earlier told Ukraine’s allies in Brussels that:

• Restoring Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders was unrealistic
• NATO membership for Ukraine was not considered a viable solution

Macron acknowledged that Trump’s involvement in peace efforts has opened a “window of opportunity” for a negotiated settlement.

“Everyone has to play their role,” Macron said, emphasizing that:

• Zelensky must lead discussions on Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity
• The international community—particularly Europe—must shape the broader security framework for the region

Macron described Trump’s return to global diplomacy as an “electroshock” for Europe, urging EU nations to reduce reliance on U.S. security guarantees.

He reiterated the need for Europe to build a fully integrated defense, industrial, and technological base, emphasizing that the continent must be prepared to secure its own future, regardless of U.S. policy shifts.

As diplomatic maneuvers intensify, Macron’s stance signals Europe’s determination to maintain a unified front, even as Trump’s direct involvement in Ukraine negotiations reshapes the global power dynamic.