SAWT BEIRUT INTERNATIONAL

| 28 March 2024, Thursday |

Russia must not be humiliated despite Putin’s ‘historic’ mistake, says France’s Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that it is critical that Russia not be humiliated so that when the violence in Ukraine ceases, a diplomatic solution can be found, and that Paris will play a mediation role to end the crisis.

Since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February, Macron has pushed to retain contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin. His approach has been consistently attacked by some of Europe’s eastern and Baltic countries, who view it as hindering attempts to get Putin to the bargaining table.

“We must not humiliate Russia so that when the war ceases, we can develop an escape ramp through diplomatic methods,” Macron said in a Saturday interview with regional media. “I am sure that France’s position as a mediating power is essential.”

Macron has talked with Putin on a frequent basis since the invasion, as part of efforts to negotiate a truce and launch a genuine talks between Kiev and Moscow.

“I believe, as I have warned him, that he is committing a historic and profound error for his country, himself, and history,” Macron added.

France has supported Ukraine militarily and financially, but until now Macron has not been to Kyiv to offer symbolic political support like other EU leaders, something Ukraine has wanted him to do. Macron said he had not ruled out going.

    Source:
  • Reuters