French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday welcomed what he described as a “very clear message” from US President Donald Trump after the latter shifted his position on the conflict in Ukraine, stating that Kyiv could regain all Ukrainian territory currently occupied by Russia.

Speaking to France 24 and Radio France Internationale (RFI) from New York, Macron said that Trump’s stance represented a “very important” development and offered a “new perspective”, noting that Ukraine needs American equipment and support.

“This is a very clear message from the American president to say that Russia is undoubtedly weaker, more fragile than many have said,” Macron stated.

He added that this position “will enable Ukraine to resist even more, and even retake territory”, stressing the significance for Kyiv in the ongoing war. Macron made these remarks while attending the annual UN General Assembly.

Following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump posted on social media that Ukraine is now in a position, with the EU’s support, to fight and regain all of its territory in its original form.

• Crimea: Annexed by Russia in 2014.
• Eastern and Southern Ukraine: Currently under Russian control following Moscow’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Macron also addressed recent drone incursions by Russia into NATO member states Poland and Romania, saying the alliance’s response would have to “go up a notch” in the event of further provocations.

“This means that if someone provokes you again, you have to react a little more strongly,” he said, though he did not provide further specifics.

However, Macron emphasised that, despite these tests from the Russian military, allies would not open fire to shoot down such objects, indicating a measured response strategy.

Key Points

Macron’s comments reflect a significant shift in international discourse, highlighting both Western support for Ukraine and the need for caution in responding to Russian provocations.