Second emergency meeting in Paris: France and Germany are ready to take responsibility for peace and security in Ukraine and Europe.

After discussions in Paris on Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron held another urgent meeting focused on Ukraine on February 19. He spoke with several leaders from the EU, Canada, Iceland and Norway.

“The position of France and its partners is clear and united. We strive for a strong and lasting peace in Ukraine. We support Ukraine and will take full responsibility for ensuring peace and security in Europe,” Macron said.

He noted that the EU shares the US president’s desire to end Russia’s war against Ukraine. However, peace must be achieved with Ukraine’s participation and meet Europe’s security interests.

“Ukraine must always participate in negotiations, and its rights must be respected,” Macron emphasized.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stressed that Ukraine should not encounter obstacles in its decision to become a democratic, sovereign country on its path to Europe. And in the event of a future peaceful settlement, it must have a strong army, “for which we in Europe and our partners share responsibility.”