French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that only Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy can negotiate peace with Russia.

Speaking on Thursday, Macron warned that a peace agreement that forces Ukraine to surrender would be bad for everyone, including the United States.

“The main question now is whether President Putin is serious about agreeing to a ceasefire. After that, it is up to Ukraine to negotiate with Russia,” Macron said.

This statement comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump spoke separately with both Putin and Zelenskiy, urging U.S. officials to begin discussions on ending the nearly three-year-long war.

Trump’s move has raised concerns among Ukrainians, who fear he might agree to a deal that favors Russia. However, Trump assured reporters that Ukraine would have a say in any peace agreement.

Macron sees Trump’s efforts as an opportunity for a negotiated solution. He emphasized that while Zelenskiy will handle territorial and sovereignty issues, the international community—especially Europe—must work on security guarantees for Ukraine and the region.

Macron also noted that Trump’s return to the global stage should serve as a wake-up call for Europe to secure its own future and Ukraine’s.