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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin on Sunday for intensive discussions on a potential ceasefire framework, marking a significant diplomatic push as the war with Russia continues into its third year.
The consultations involve a US delegation including President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner, who are meeting with Zelenskyy and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to focus on negotiations aimed at ending hostilities. Germany is hosting the talks ahead of a broader summit scheduled for Monday evening.
As the diplomatic efforts intensified, French President Emmanuel Macron publicly reaffirmed his country's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty. In a post on the social media platform X, Macron said he had spoken with Zelenskyy and emphasized 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," Macron wrote. He also thanked negotiators from Ukraine, Europe and the United States working toward that objective.
The French president's statement underscores European concerns about ensuring any peace agreement provides durable security arrangements for Ukraine, rather than a temporary cessation of fighting that could leave the country vulnerable to future aggression.
The broader summit planned for Monday evening will bring together Zelenskyy, European leaders, and representatives from the European Union and NATO. The meeting represents an effort to coordinate the Western response to potential peace negotiations, though it remains unclear whether US officials will participate in the larger gathering.
The talks come as diplomatic activity has accelerated following the Trump administration's stated interest in brokering an end to the conflict. Ukraine has sought to ensure that any ceasefire agreement includes security guarantees that would prevent a resumption of hostilities, while maintaining its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Germany, as Europe's largest economy and a major provider of military and financial assistance to Ukraine, has positioned itself as a key mediator in the peace process. The country's hosting of these discussions reflects its significant diplomatic role within the European Union and NATO.
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