Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with US president-elect Donald Trump in Paris on Saturday, stressing that any resolution to the ongoing conflict with Russia must be "just." The meeting, held at the Élysée Palace with French President Emmanuel Macron, came as concerns grew in Kyiv over Trump’s stance on the war in Ukraine.
The talks, which occurred just hours before the Biden administration announced a new $988 million military aid package for Ukraine, were of significant importance to Zelenskyy. He voiced the necessity of strong security guarantees and peace that would prevent future Russian aggression, emphasizing that any settlement must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty.
“We all want peace. But it is very important for us that the peace is just for all of us and that Russia, or any other aggressor, has no possibility of ever returning,” Zelenskyy stated. He reiterated that a "just peace" was central to securing Ukraine's future.
Trump, who has previously downplayed the scale of US military aid to Ukraine and suggested a quick resolution to the conflict, did not signal a shift in his approach during the discussions. However, Zelenskyy acknowledged the "unwavering resolve" of the talks, calling them "good and productive."
The meeting also gave Macron a chance to gauge Trump’s approach to global issues as he prepares for his return to office in January. Trump, speaking to reporters ahead of the meeting, noted, "It seems like the world is going a little crazy right now," underscoring the complexities of the global situation.
While the meeting was cordial, with Trump and Macron exchanging handshakes and warm gestures, concerns are mounting in European capitals about Trump’s promises to push for an end to the war in Ukraine. His rhetoric about negotiating a quick settlement and his past focus on isolating the US from global alliances have raised alarm in Europe.
Macron, on the other hand, appeared eager to continue fostering cooperation with the US in securing peace. In a statement following the meeting, he emphasized, "Let us continue our joint efforts for peace and security."
Trump’s visit to Paris was his first international trip since his victory in the November election. His trip culminated in attending the reopening ceremony of Notre Dame Cathedral, where he was greeted with a full guard of honor.
The new military aid package from the Biden administration, which includes drones, precision-guided munitions, and spare parts for Ukraine’s artillery and tanks, highlights continued US support for Ukraine. However, the incoming Trump administration’s stance could signal a shift in US foreign policy, with potential implications for Ukraine and its European allies.
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