During a press conference at the G7 summit on June 17, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the group’s commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity. He noted that the summit participants collectively recognized that Russia is currently not showing a serious willingness to engage in peace negotiations.
Macron highlighted a shift in rhetoric from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that territories occupied by Russia should belong to Ukraine. “The text we agreed upon is much stronger than it may seem. It confirms Ukraine’s territorial integrity. We have always said that Ukrainians must decide on their territories; we cannot do that for them. At the same time, President Trump clearly stated that these territories should belong to Ukraine, and that is the correct position,” Macron said.
“The text we agreed upon is much stronger than it may seem. It confirms Ukraine’s territorial integrity. We have always said that Ukrainians must decide on their territories; we cannot do that for them. At the same time, President Trump clearly stated that these territories should belong to Ukraine, and that is the correct position,” Macron said.
He also pointed out that the G7 document does not mention peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, indicating a significant shift in perspective. “For months, the U.S. has attempted to engage in dialogue with Russia, but to no avail. Europeans have also tried to restore dialogue—without success. President Zelensky proposed direct talks with Putin, but Russia declined. All of us, including President Trump, have noted that Russia is not demonstrating a serious desire to negotiate for peace,” Macron stated.
“For months, the U.S. has attempted to engage in dialogue with Russia, but to no avail. Europeans have also tried to restore dialogue—without success. President Zelensky proposed direct talks with Putin, but Russia declined. All of us, including President Trump, have noted that Russia is not demonstrating a serious desire to negotiate for peace,” Macron stated.
Macron expressed that only future events will reveal whether this summit marks a historical turning point for Ukraine. He described the gathering as a pivotal moment, likening it to an “Evian moment” for the country.
“Everyone listened to President Zelensky with great respect. They all saw that Ukraine is resisting much stronger than many expected, while Russia is in a more challenging situation than it appears,” Macron remarked.
Additionally, Macron announced that the G7 leaders agreed to enhance support for Ukraine, increase pressure on Russia, and maintain this course moving forward. “This represents a real change compared to previous months—not for Europe, as we have been consistent, but for all G7 members,” he added.
The G7 summit is taking place from June 15-17 in Évian-les-Bains, a resort town on the shores of Lake Geneva. Key topics include peace negotiations to end the war in Ukraine and the situation surrounding Iran, particularly the signing of an agreement with the U.S. and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky participated in a working session of the G7 on June 16. He arrived at the summit on Tuesday morning, where he was welcomed by President Macron. The day before, he had a phone conversation with President Trump and confirmed their agreement to meet during the summit.
French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed G7 support for Ukraine's territorial integrity during the summit, highlighting a lack of Russian willingness for peace talks. The summit, held in Évian, also focused on increasing support for Ukraine and addressing global issues.