French President Emmanuel Macron held out the possibility for tougher economic sanctions against Russia if it does not end its war against Ukraine. “I confirm to you at this stage, I have suggestions that don’t exclude to escalation. But that’s not by hope. What I’d like is through Minsk agreement to find a solution and for the Ukrainian and Russian sides, a de-escalation,” Macron said.
He said he hopes for a solution in accordance with the 2015 Minsk peace agreement. The agreement requires Russia to withdraw militarily from eastern Ukraine, return eastern border control to Ukraine and allow international monitors unfettered access.
Speaking at a press conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin at his side, Macron said that the leaders of four nations — Germany, France, Russia and Ukraine — will be meeting soon in the Normandy Format to evaluate the situation.
An English-language translation of the press conference’s video and transcript can be read here.
