At the Munich Security Conference on February 13, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed the opinion that European countries need to be involved in negotiations with Russia aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine. According to information provided by Le Monde, he emphasized the importance of creating a "transparent communication channel" with Russia.
Macron noted that for future negotiations with Russia, Europe must be in a "strong position." He urged the Old World countries to actively develop their defense capabilities, particularly in the area of long-range systems.
The French president also added that even after the conflict with Ukraine is resolved, Europe will still face an aggressive Russia. In this context, he highlighted the need to define the rules of coexistence with it to minimize the risk of escalation, as reported by Reuters and quoted by Le Figaro.
"Europeans must start this work based on their own interests and thinking. I propose to initiate a series of consultations on this important issue," Macron stated, calling on European countries to join the discussions already being held by France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
Additionally, he suggested reviewing and reorganizing the security architecture in Europe, including a "new formulation of nuclear deterrence."
