Macron says there is ‘no distrust’ between Europe and US on Ukraine

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday said there was “no distrust whatsoever” between Europe and the United States regarding efforts to secure peace between Ukraine and Russia, stressing that transatlantic unity remained essential.

Speaking about ongoing diplomatic initiatives, Macron underlined that Europe and the US must work “hand in hand” to achieve a durable peace.

“Unity between Americans and Europeans on Ukraine is indispensable. I repeat this constantly - we must work together. We welcome and support the peace efforts undertaken by the United States,” he said.

Macron noted Washington needed Europe at the forefront of these efforts because the conflict was unfolding on the European continent and Europe played a central role in security guarantees, sanctions and the management of Russia’s frozen assets.

“There is no distrust, on the contrary, there is cooperation in the service of Ukraine, international law and our collective security,” he noted.

Macron also dismissed reporting by German magazine Spiegel, which published details from a December 1 phone call involving several European leaders, NATO’s Secretary General, the Finnish President, and Ukrainian President. The outlet claimed Macron suggested that the US might “betray” Ukraine.

The Élysée Palace rejected the claim, saying the French President never used the word “betrayal.”

“I deny everything. There is a side of peace — Ukraine, the Europeans, the Americans, all allies in the coalition of the willing. And there is one country waging war and refusing peace: Russia. We need the US for peace and they need us to make this peace strong and lasting”, he said.