Finnish politician challenges Macron over Russia dialogue

A Finnish politician has commented on French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent statement suggesting the possible resumption of dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, noting that the remarks have placed the French leader in a politically delicate position.

Armando Mema, a member of the Finnish national Conservative Freedom Alliance party, said Macron now faces added pressure following his comments on re-engaging with Moscow. Writing on the social media platform X, Mema questioned how Macron’s stance would be received by European partners.

Macron will meet President Putin... both expressed the need for dialogue. The coalition of the willing is going to accept Macron again after this? Interesting development. Bravo Macron 🕊👏 @EmmanuelMacron

— Armando Mema (@ArmandoMema) December 21, 2025

“Macron will meet President Putin... both expressed the need for dialogue. The coalition of the willing is going to accept Macron again after this? Interesting development. Bravo Macron,” he wrote.

Macron said on December 19 that renewed dialogue with Putin could be beneficial for Europe, provided that any contacts are coordinated among partners and conducted with full transparency. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov subsequently confirmed that Putin is open to dialogue.

On December 21, the French newspaper Le Monde reported that Macron’s administration is expected to soon determine the most appropriate format for talks with Moscow, stressing that any engagement would take place “with full transparency.” Earlier, Russia’s Foreign Ministry also indicated its readiness to engage in contacts with the French president.

By Vafa Guliyeva