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Summary:

Following statements from French President Emmanuel Macron advocating for renewed dialogue with Russia to resolve the Ukraine conflict, the Kremlin has indicated President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to speak with Macron. While the French presidency welcomes this openness, it emphasizes that any discussions will be transparent with Ukraine and European allies, aiming for a lasting peace. This development occurs alongside U.S.-mediated negotiations in Florida between Ukrainian, European, and Russian envoys. Despite initial suggestions from Ukraine, the Kremlin has denied the possibility of trilateral talks involving the U.S.
News Article:

French Presidency Welcomes Putin’s Willingness to Talk Amidst US-Brokered Negotiations

Paris, December 21, 2025 (The Hindu) – The French presidency has expressed its approval of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to engage in dialogue with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The announcement comes after Macron publicly stated that Europe should re-establish diplomatic channels with Russia to facilitate a resolution, rather than relying solely on the United States.

“It is welcome that the Kremlin has publicly agreed to this approach. We will decide in the coming days on the best way to proceed,” stated a press release from the Elysee Palace earlier today.

However, the French presidency also emphasized that any conversation with Moscow would be conducted “in full transparency” with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European allies. The ultimate goal remains securing a “solid and lasting peace” for Ukraine, which has been embroiled in conflict since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed Putin’s readiness for dialogue in an interview with RIA Novosti. Macron previously noted that the invasion had previously halted any talk.

The news coincides with ongoing negotiations in Florida, mediated by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Ukrainian and European envoys are participating on one side, with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev representing Moscow. President Zelenskyy had earlier hinted at possible trilateral talks involving the U.S., but the Kremlin has since denied those plans.

The renewed diplomatic interest signifies a potential shift in approach to the protracted conflict, although significant hurdles remain in achieving a lasting resolution.

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