A potential path toward diplomatic engagement regarding the conflict in Ukraine may be opening, as Russia's President
Vladimir Putin has signaled a readiness to speak directly with French President Emmanuel Macron. According to Kremlin
representative Dmitry Peskov, Putin is prepared to engage in discussions with Macron concerning the ongoing situation.
In response, the French presidency released a statement acknowledging the Kremlin's indication. The Elysée Palace
conveyed a positive reaction, noting that it is a welcome sign that the Kremlin has publicly agreed to consider this
avenue. Officials stated they would determine the most effective approach in the coming days.
Macron himself highlighted the importance of European involvement in any potential peace negotiations for Ukraine at the
recent EU summit in Brussels. He emphasized the necessity for Europe to connect with Putin, ensuring a peace agreement
isn't solely brokered by the United States, Russia, and Ukraine. As the summit concluded last Friday, Macron told
reporters that Europeans and Ukrainians should establish a framework for appropriately engaging in discussions.
The Elysée has also emphasized that any discussions with Russia would be conducted with complete transparency, involving
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European allies, according to reports in Le Monde. Direct
communication between Macron and Putin has been infrequent since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in
early 2022. Their most recent phone conversation occurred in July, marking a break of roughly three years without direct