On March 20, 2025, Emmanuel Macron announced a new summit to be held in Paris on March 27, 2025, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and allies of Ukraine. The summit aims to finalize short-term military support for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions with Russia and to solidify a coalition among nations willing to back Ukraine's security guarantees.
This summit, termed a "coalition of volunteers," will gather countries prepared to contribute in any capacity to Ukraine's defense as it seeks to fortify its position against Russian aggression. Macron emphasized the need for "a reiterated and explicit engagement" regarding short-term support, highlighting the importance of establishing a sustainable Ukrainian military model designed to deter potential Russian invasions.
In a message shared on social media, Macron insisted that defining the security guarantees that European forces could extend is crucial. One significant proposal discussed has been the deployment of peacekeeping forces on Ukrainian territory, a notion that has been met with stern opposition from Moscow, which views any European military presence in Ukraine as a step toward direct conflict.
This upcoming meeting builds on prior discussions held in Paris and London earlier in March, following a series of talks led by the United States with both Russia and Ukraine to negotiate a limited truce, scheduled for March 24, 2025, in Saudi Arabia. The ongoing diplomatic efforts have been amplified, particularly after U.S. President Donald Trump initiated direct dialogues with Russia last month aimed at resolving three years of conflict.
Macron, who has been actively fostering a united front among European nations, expressed his commitment to discussing the framework for a ceasefire with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Addressing the current diplomatic climate, he mentioned, "We have done substantial work with the British on the conditions for framing the ceasefire, and I think this will be an opportunity to discuss and clarify those conditions."
Further elaborating on the situation, Macron remarked on the "very disappointing" response from Russia regarding the American-Ukrainian proposal for a comprehensive one-month ceasefire. He noted that this response aligns with their observations of Russia's reluctance to genuinely pursue peace at this juncture.
Reflecting on the challenges in diplomatic negotiations, Macron wryly noted, "What can change the position of President Putin? Ask him! I’m not in his head. Thankfully, in a way," before asserting the necessity of demonstrating unwavering commitment to Ukraine. "We must show our engagement behind Ukrainians," he affirmed.
As the tensions persist, Zelensky’s administration continues to contend with an increase in Russian demands which they describe as unnecessary hurdles that prolong the conflict. While the Ukrainian president has pledged to the possibility of a 30-day truce proposed by U.S. negotiators, Putin has countered with requests for concessions before he would agree to such terms.
In addition to the summit, Macron announced plans to travel to Egypt on April 7 and 8, 2025, to discuss an Arab plan for Gaza reconstruction, indicating his broader diplomatic strategy in the region.
The March 27 summit serves not only as a critical point in determining immediate support for Ukraine but also as a stepping stone towards long-term security arrangements that may reshape the geopolitical landscape of Europe and beyond. With both traditional and hybrid threats looming, the coalition's resolve to maintain peace and stability in the region remains paramount in light of the unpredictable responses from the Kremlin.
As Macron and Starmer navigate this complex diplomatic terrain, observers are eager to see if a united front can emerge strong enough to influence the course of action in Moscow and ultimately secure a cessation of hostilities.
