Brussels – On the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in a diplomatic meeting with former President Donald Trump at the White House.

This interaction coincided with a controversial UN General Assembly session where the United States and a few countries voted against a resolution condemning Russia’s actions.

Macron, the first European leader to meet with Trump during his administration, sought to reinforce the transatlantic alliance amid ongoing debates regarding Ukraine's future.

During the meeting, Macron cautioned Trump against what he termed a potential 'surrender' of Ukraine.

He underscored the necessity for an agreement that incorporates substantial security guarantees for Ukraine, emphasizing that the interests of both Americans and Europeans align in this regard.

The discussions were connected to a G7 leaders’ meeting that Trudeau was chairing from Kyiv, with key European leaders present.

Macron and Trump’s conversation displayed notable tension over financial support for Ukraine.

Trump claimed that Europe was merely loaning funds to Ukraine, suggesting that the continent would recoup its assistance.

Macron immediately countered, stating that Europe had contributed significantly, covering about 60 percent of Ukraine's total financial support needs through loans, guarantees, and grants.

Despite differing perspectives, the atmosphere during the press conference was described as cordial, if at times tense.

A central topic of discussion was the need for European military involvement in Ukraine.

According to Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin would not object to a European military presence as part of a peace agreement, a claim he attributed to direct inquiries with the Russian leader.

Macron confirmed that European leaders are prepared to send troops to ensure adherence to any peace accord, contingent upon receiving American protection as part of this framework.

European military assistance, while opposed by Putin regarding NATO involvement, might involve peacekeeping forces not affiliated with NATO, addressing European leaders’ desire for U.S. backing.

The negotiations also touched on issues surrounding mineral resources, with Trump indicating progress on a proposed deal whereby Ukraine would allocate a portion of its mineral revenue to the United States as repayment for U.S. support.

This proposal has met with skepticism from Ukrainian officials, particularly as it greatly exceeds the financial aid provided by the U.S. thus far.

On the subject of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, Trump appeared open to the possibility of territorial concessions, a position that deviates from Europe's more stringent stance on maintaining Ukraine's sovereignty.

Macron asserted that any peace agreement must uphold Ukrainian sovereignty and allow Ukraine to negotiate with relevant parties.

In parallel developments, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, is scheduled to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is also set to visit the White House to discuss bilateral relations.

These engagements signify a shift towards two-way negotiations that may influence future interactions with Russia.

Reports indicate that Putin has acknowledged the potential for broader participation in peace negotiations beyond Europe.

As the European Union prepares for an extraordinary summit on Ukraine and strives to create a unified negotiating strategy, member states will evaluate approaches that align with their long-standing support for Ukraine, while also considering ongoing U.S. political dynamics.

A videoconference organized by President of the European Council Antonio Costa will convene EU leaders, facilitating a discussion on Macron’s insights from Washington.