France reaffirms support for Ukraine as Zelenskyy heads to Berlin for high-stakes talks

By Melike Pala

BRUSSELS (AA) - French President Emmanuel Macron said Sunday that France stands "with Ukraine" and will continue supporting its sovereignty and security as the country seeks a durable peace amid ongoing war.

In a post on US social media company X, Macron said he had spoken with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and reiterated that "Americans, Europeans and Ukrainians only seek peace."

"France is and will continue to be at Ukraine's side to build a robust and lasting peace capable of guaranteeing the security and sovereignty of Ukraine and Europe in the long term," he wrote.

Macron also thanked negotiators from Ukraine, Europe and the United States who are working toward that goal.

On Sunday, Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin, Germany, for intensive discussions on a potential ceasefire and peace framework.

The initial talks involve a US delegation, including President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner. They are meeting with Zelenskyy and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to focus on negotiations aimed at a ceasefire.

Germany is hosting these consultations ahead of a broader summit on Monday evening, which will bring together Zelenskyy, European leaders, and representatives from the EU and NATO. It remains unclear whether US officials will participate in the meeting.