Macron to Trump: 'Peace cannot mean the surrender of Ukraine' during Washington visit

US President Donald Trump welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron to the White House on Monday for high-stakes talks at a moment of deep uncertainty in transatlantic relations. Macron assured Trump that Europe was prepared to "step up" its defense commitments and contribute to building a lasting peace in Ukraine.

European Commitment to Security

During a joint press conference with Trump at the White House, Macron emphasized Europe's readiness to increase defense spending but urged strong US involvement in ensuring a secure and lasting peace in Ukraine.

"As Europeans, we have committed to being stakeholders in these security guarantees," Macron stated. "We recognize that Europe must take greater responsibility for its security, its defense, and more fairly share the security burden that the US has shouldered for so many years."

Macron’s visit coincided with the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and comes amid growing concerns that Trump’s foreign policy shifts could leave European nations sidelined in negotiations to end the war.

The Cost of Peace and US Involvement

Trump expressed optimism that Russia’s war in Ukraine was nearing an end, emphasizing that "the cost and burden of securing the peace must be borne by the nations of Europe and not, alone, by the United States."

Macron welcomed Trump’s diplomatic efforts but firmly stated, "This peace cannot mean the surrender of Ukraine."

"Ukraine has fought these past years for its independence, for its sovereignty, and for our collective security," Macron stressed. "None of us want to live in a world where international borders can be violated at will, and where might makes right."