Macron Proposes Territorial Concessions for Ukraine-Russia Peace

Macron's Controversial Proposal

French President Emmanuel Macron has sparked debate by suggesting that Ukraine may need to relinquish certain territories to secure peace with Russia. In a video message shared on the Elysee Palace's social media, he stated, 'As part of a truce or peace agreement, Ukraine might have to acknowledge the loss of territories.' He emphasized that while Ukraine would not recognize these areas as being under foreign sovereignty, the acknowledgment of loss due to military actions could be necessary. Macron clarified that this approach does not violate international law, but it would represent a significant concession.

« L’Ukraine peut compter sur notre solidarité sans faille alors que nous œuvrons en faveur d’une paix qui préserve les intérêts vitaux de sécurité de l’Ukraine et de l’Europe. »

Déclaration conjointe importante :https://t.co/OiH7emg9Lu

— Élysée (@Elysee) August 16, 2025

Macron further noted that after years of conflict and numerous casualties, no nation would accept territorial losses without assurances for the protection of its remaining land. He mentioned that the Coalition of the Willing convened recently to discuss security guarantees for Kyiv, which will be revisited in a meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington.

The French leader also highlighted that several Western nations are prepared to send troops to Ukraine to help maintain peace after the conflict, as reported by various sources. 'Countries are ready to assist, from training and logistics to non-combat roles in safe zones,' Macron stated, indicating that discussions with Trump would clarify the US's potential involvement.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to visit Washington on August 18, accompanied by Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is also expected to attend this significant meeting.