Macron calls for immediate ceasefire in Ukraine amid Kyiv visit

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a "just and lasting peace" in Ukraine, urging a complete and unconditional ceasefire.

In a message posted on X during a joint visit to Kyiv with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Macron emphasised Europe’s collective commitment to peace, sovereignty, and Ukraine’s future as part of the European family, Caliber.Az reports. 

“For more than three years, Ukrainians have resisted with admirable courage—for their land, their freedom, and for Europe,” Macron wrote. He reiterated that the response to Russia’s invasion must remain unified and resolute among European allies and partners.

Macron outlined three core messages of the visit: the pursuit of peace, the defence of Ukrainian sovereignty, and a vision for Ukraine’s future within Europe.

“A just and lasting peace begins with a complete and unconditional ceasefire,” he stated, noting that Ukraine accepted such a proposal on March 11, while Russia has continued to stall and impose conditions. 

“If Moscow persists in its blockade, we will increase the pressure, as Europeans and in close coordination with the United States,” Macron added, welcoming US President Donald Trump’s support for increased diplomatic pressure.

The French leader reaffirmed his support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, referencing recent high-level meetings in Paris, London, and now Kyiv focused on long-term security guarantees.

Looking ahead, Macron underscored a shared vision of Ukraine as a “free, strong, prosperous, and European” nation. 

“Ukraine is fighting for its people, but also for the European ideal in which we believe,” he said. “History is watching us.”

On May 11, French President Emmanuel Macron, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have travelled to Ukraine to discuss peace, sovereignty and the future of the republic. 

The European leaders travelled together from the Polish-Ukrainian border to Kyiv, taking a train to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The meeting’s agenda included a joint call for a “complete” and “unconditional” ceasefire between Kyiv and Moscow for a period of 30 days.

By Sabina Mammadli