France and Germany in close contact to work on a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, Macron says

French President Macron meets newly elected German Chancellor Merz in Paris

France's President Emmanuel Macron meets with Germany's newly elected Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the Elysee presidential palace in Paris, France on May 7, 2025. LUDOVIC MARIN/Pool via REUTERS

Source: Pool

France and Germany are in close contact in their unwavering support for Ukraine and will continue to work towards a 30-day ceasefire, French president Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday, speaking alongside new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the Elysee palace.

"There is only one question that needs to be answered: is Russia ready for a ceasefire lasting at least 30 days in order to be able to build a solid and lasting ceasefire? Will the Russian president be, at last, true to his word, in particular the one given during talks with the U.S. administration ?, Macron said.

Merz said for his part he was hopeful that a permanent ceasefire could be agreed soon for Ukraine but held back on making any commitments for Ukraine's security.

"We will be there to accompany this 30-day cease fire and build a lasting and solid peace. And we (France and Germany) are in close contact," Macron added.

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By Reuters