Q: Do you consider Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin’s discussions regarding the war in Ukraine to be a step in the right direction, despite Russia’s refusal of an immediate ceasefire?
A: Every discussion regarding the prospect of a ceasefire is useful. However, yesterday evening’s Russian strikes on Ukraine, some of which targeted civilian infrastructure, are proof of the discrepancy between what Moscow says and what it does. Unlike Russia, Ukraine has agreed to an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire, which was proposed by the U.S. in Saudi Arabia. France supports all efforts to achieve a just, robust and lasting peace in Ukraine. That requires providing continued military support to Ukraine and increasing the pressure on Russia in order to force it to make concessions.