France, UK propose one-month Ukraine truce: Macron to Le Figaro
by By Ag AfpFrance and the UK have proposed a one-month truce in Ukraine, covering air, sea, and energy infrastructure, following high-level crisis talks in London, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed on Sunday, AFP reported.
Speaking to Le Figaro, Macron clarified that this proposed ceasefire would not immediately extend to ground combat due to the difficulty of monitoring compliance across the vast frontline. He added that peacekeepers could be deployed later but ruled out European troops being stationed in Ukraine in the coming weeks.
Macron also stressed the need for European nations to boost their defence budgets, suggesting they raise spending to between 3.0 and 3.5 percent of GDP. This, he argued, is essential given Russia's increasing military investments and shifting US priorities. "For three years, Russia has been allocating 10 percent of its GDP to defence. We must prepare for what lies ahead," he warned.
In a separate interview with Italy’s Il Foglio, Macron emphasised Italy’s crucial role in addressing the Ukraine crisis. However, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appeared to downplay the idea of her country participating in a potential peacekeeping mission, stating that such a move was "never on the agenda."
"We need Italy— a strong Italy— working alongside France and Germany within the framework of major global powers," Macron stated, highlighting the importance of European unity in navigating the ongoing conflict.