Mon Feb 24 18:59:49 UTC 2025: ## Macron and Trump Meet Amid Transatlantic Tensions Over Ukraine Peace

**Washington, D.C.** – French President Emmanuel Macron met with US President Donald Trump at the White House Monday, amidst growing European anxieties over the future of transatlantic relations and the handling of the Ukraine conflict. The meeting, on the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, focused heavily on securing a lasting peace in Ukraine.

Macron emphasized the shared objective of peace, but stressed the need for “guarantees and a solid peace” to ensure stability. He highlighted Europe’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities and its willingness to play a more significant role in securing Ukraine, including potentially providing peacekeeping troops as part of a ceasefire agreement.

Trump, meanwhile, claimed significant progress has been made in negotiations with Russia to end the war, although details remain scarce. His assertions have been met with skepticism in Europe, particularly given his past criticisms of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whom he recently labeled a “dictator” and implied was partly responsible for the conflict. Trump’s suggestion of direct US-Russia negotiations without Ukrainian or European involvement has further fueled concerns in Europe about a potential undermining of Ukrainian sovereignty.

Trump’s statements have prompted concerns in Europe that he may prioritize a swift peace deal, potentially at the expense of Ukraine’s interests. Al Jazeera’s Alan Fisher reported that European leaders seek a lasting peace, not a rushed agreement that compromises Ukraine’s sovereignty. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz confirmed that security guarantees for Ukraine were a key discussion point. Trade disputes between the US and the European Union were also on the agenda.

Despite the tensions, the meeting offered a glimmer of hope for some analysts. Rachel Rizzo of the Atlantic Council suggested that Macron’s proactive stance on European defense and support for Ukraine, coupled with Trump’s apparent openness to European peacekeeping troops, could signal potential progress towards a viable peace agreement. However, the underlying concerns regarding the direction of US foreign policy under Trump remain.

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