Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelensky were overheard discussing Donald Trump while strolling at the Hotel Royal during the G7 summit. The French president welcomed his Ukrainian counterpart to the Group of Seven gathering in Evian-les-Bains, France, for a working session.
Macron mentioned a challenging public discussion with the US president on Ukraine, and encouraged Zelensky to extend his stay at the summit. Zelensky, however, mentioned his upcoming meeting with EU leaders in Brussels.
During their conversation, Macron inquired about a potential meeting arrangement, to which Zelensky mentioned President Trump. The two leaders then continued their discussion discreetly for about 20 seconds.
The talks with Zelensky concluded swiftly, with the Ukrainian president emphasizing Ukraine’s dedication to peace while criticizing Russia’s actions. The G7 leaders expressed unanimous support for Ukraine, discussing the need for additional Patriot missiles and ways to enhance production through licensing agreements.
G7 leaders, including Trump, agreed to intensify pressure on Russia, particularly through sanctions targeting its energy sectors. Following a reduction in US aid to Ukraine by Trump, European allies like France have stepped up in providing military and financial assistance to Kyiv.
Throughout the summit, G7 leaders engaged in intense discussions on resolving conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Additionally, a ceremony for a US-Iran deal is set to take place at the Burgenstock resort in Switzerland, aiming to extend a ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
However, challenges persist in ending conflicts, including Israel’s offensive in Lebanon, which has led to significant casualties, as reported by the Lebanese Ministry of Health.