Zelenskyy Calls for Lasting Peace Following Talks With Macron as U.S. Envoys Move Toward Moscow

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that any future peace agreement must be “durable and just” after holding detailed discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, as diplomatic activity surrounding the war intensifies on multiple fronts. The appeal comes at a moment when U.S. officials are preparing to travel to Moscow for rare, high-level conversations aimed at assessing potential openings for de-escalation.

Zelenskyy and Macron met in Paris to review recent developments on the battlefield and explore conditions under which long-term security guarantees for Ukraine could be established. Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine will not accept a temporary ceasefire or a settlement that allows Russia to regroup, insisting that only a robust and enforceable framework can safeguard Europe from future aggression.

French officials reportedly pressed for clearer pathways to negotiations while reaffirming their support for Kyiv’s defense and reconstruction needs. Macron, who has repeatedly argued that Europe must remain deeply involved in shaping the continent’s security architecture, described the meeting as “constructive and focused on stability.”

Meanwhile, the upcoming U.S. delegation visit to Moscow marks one of the most notable diplomatic steps in months. While expectations for major breakthroughs remain low, the discussions are expected to cover risk reduction, humanitarian access, and potential mechanisms for preventing further military escalation. Washington has signaled that it will continue coordinating closely with Kyiv and European partners throughout the process.

The convergence of these diplomatic efforts reflects growing international pressure to find a sustainable path forward as the war approaches another painful year. Zelenskyy’s insistence on a lasting peace underscores Kyiv’s determination to avoid concessions that could jeopardize Ukraine’s future security or embolden further aggression.

As envoys prepare for the next round of talks, governments across Europe and beyond are watching closely to see whether this renewed engagement can lead to meaningful steps toward ending the conflict.

Author: M.J